Systems and methods for navigation route overview

Abstract

A computer-implemented method includes displaying a straight-line visualization of a navigation route for a vehicle, wherein the straight-line visualization is configured as a linear display view having abstracted information relating to the navigation route. The computer-implemented method further includes displaying a plurality of point of interest (POI) icons along the straight-line visualization, and updating the straight-line visualization as the vehicle travels along the navigation route corresponding to the straight-line visualization, wherein the updating includes modifying the plurality of POI icons based at least in part on a current location of the vehicle.

Description

Attorney Docket No.: 0597-000045-WO-POA Client Ref. No.: P240560WOSYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR NAVIGATION ROUTE OVERVIEW CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims priority to and the benefit of US provisional application 63 / 740,879 filed on December 31, 2024. The disclosure of the above application is incorporated herein by reference.FIELD

[0002] The present disclosure relates to vehicle navigation, and more particularly, to monitoring navigation of a vehicle along a route.BACKGROUND

[0001] The statements in this section merely provide background information related to the present disclosure and may not constitute prior art.

[0002] Traditional navigation systems (e.g., a traditional vehicle Global Positioning System (GPS)) monitor the location of a vehicle along a route and provide drivers with navigation and location-based services, including visual updates. For example, these systems monitor the progress of the vehicle along the route and provide updated navigation details, such as detailed turn-by-turn directions or a conventional map view.

[0003] It can be difficult for a person viewing the navigation details to appreciate or properly process all the details of the displayed directions or contents of the map view, such as while driving the vehicle. That is, these systems can be cumbersome or unintuitive (e.g., complex menus, small display screens, etc.), especially while driving. In some configurations, it is difficult to display all of the navigation information in a way that can be satisfactorily viewed by the driver or properly displayed on the navigation screen. As a result, the overall utility and user experience can be diminished.

[0004] The present disclosure addresses these and other issues related to monitoring a navigation route in relation to the location of the vehicle.Attorney Docket No.: 0597-000045-WO-POA Client Ref. No.: P240560WO SUMMARY

[0005] This section provides a general summary of the disclosure and is not a comprehensive disclosure of its full scope or all of its features.

[0006] The present disclosure provides a computer-implemented method, comprising: displaying a straight-line visualization of a navigation route for a vehicle, wherein the straight-line visualization is configured as a linear display view having abstracted information relating to the navigation route; displaying a plurality of point of interest (POI) icons along the straight-line visualization; and updating the straight-line visualization as the vehicle travels along the navigation route corresponding to the straight-line visualization, wherein the updating includes modifying the plurality of POI icons based at least in part on a current location of the vehicle. The computer-implemented method wherein updating the straight-line visualization comprises highlighting an icon of the plurality of icons corresponding to a POI closest to the current location of vehicle, wherein the highlighting comprises enlarging a size of the icon and adding additional information related to the POI. The computer-implemented wherein displaying the straight-line visualization of the navigation route comprises displaying a single straight line along a panoramic view of a display of a dashboard of the vehicle.

[0007] The computer-implemented method further comprises adding one or more POI icons based on a user input received at an infotainment screen of the vehicle via one or more user interfaces. The computer-implemented method wherein the one or more user interfaces present only a limited number of next POIs along the navigation route. The computer-implemented method wherein the straight-line visualization of the navigation route comprises a progress bar with a vehicle icon displayed in relation to the progress bar. The computer-implemented method wherein the POI icons correspond to one or more waypoints and one or more events or conditions.

[0008] The computer-implemented method further comprises displaying an estimated time of arrival for a current section of the straight-line visualization corresponding to current location of the vehicle along the navigation route relative to a next POI. The computer-implemented method further comprises removing a POI icon of the plurality of POI icons from the straight-line visualization in response to the vehicle passing the POI. The computer-implemented method further comprises removing a POIAttorney Docket No.: 0597-000045-WO-PQA Client Ref. No.: P240560WO icon of the plurality of POI icons from the straight-line visualization in response to an event or condition corresponding to the POI ending. The computer-implemented method further comprises receiving a user input to update the straight-line visualization, wherein the user input comprises a voice command, an infotainment system input, a steering wheel input, or a combination thereof.

[0009] The present disclosure provides a processor and a non-transitory computer-readable medium including instructions that are executable by the processor, wherein the instructions include: displaying a straight-line visualization of a navigation route for a vehicle, wherein the straight-line visualization is configured as a linear display view having abstracted information relating to the navigation route; displaying a plurality of point of interest (POI) icons along the straight-line visualization; and updating the straight-line visualization as the vehicle travels along the navigation route corresponding to the straight-line visualization, wherein the updating includes modifying the plurality of POI icons based at least in part on a current location of the vehicle. The system wherein the instructions further include updating the straight-line visualization by highlighting an icon of the plurality of icons corresponding to a POI closest to the current location of vehicle, wherein the highlighting comprises enlarging a size of the icon and adding additional information related to the POI. The system wherein displaying the straight-line visualization of the navigation route comprises displaying a single straight line along a panoramic view of a display of a dashboard of the vehicle.

[0010] The system wherein the instructions further include adding one or more POI icons based on a user input received at an infotainment screen of the vehicle via one or more user interfaces. The system wherein the one or more user interfaces present only a limited number of next POIs along the navigation route. The system wherein the straight-line visualization of the navigation route comprises a progress bar with a vehicle icon displayed in relation to the progress bar. The system wherein the POI icons correspond to one or more waypoints and one or more events or conditions. The system wherein the instructions further include displaying an estimated time of arrival for a current section of the straight-line visualization corresponding to current location of the vehicle along the navigation route relative to a next POI The system wherein the instructions further include at least one of removing a POI icon of the plurality of POI iconsAttorney Docket No.: 0597-000045-WO-PQA Client Ref. No.: P240560WO from the straight-line visualization in response to the vehicle passing the POI or removing a POI icon of the plurality of POI icons from the straight-line visualization in response to an event or condition corresponding to the POI ending.DRAWINGS

[0011] In order that the disclosure may be well understood, there will now be described various forms thereof, given by way of example, reference being made to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0012] FIG. 1 is a block schematic of an example vehicle configured in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0013] FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a sensor suite controller in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0014] FIG. 3 is a side diagrammatic view of a content display environment in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0015] FIG. 4 is a top diagrammatic view of the content display environment of FIG. 3 in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0016] FIG. 5 is a diagram of a vehicle interior showing a straight-line visualization displayed in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0017] FIGS.6A, 6B, 6C, and 6D are example projections utilizing a straight-line visualization in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0018] FIGS. 7-11 are example user interfaces in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0019] FIG. 12 is an example projection utilizing an updated straight-line visualization in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0020] FIGS. 13 is another example user interface in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0021] FIG. 14 is a flowchart illustrating an example method for navigation route overview in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure; andAttorney Docket No.: 0597-000045-WO-POA Client Ref. No.: P240560WO

[0022] FIG. 15 is a block diagram illustrating an example computer system in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0023] The drawings described herein are for illustration purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure in any way.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0024] The following description is merely exemplary in nature and is not intended to limit the present disclosure, application, or uses. It should be understood that throughout the drawings, corresponding reference numerals indicate like or corresponding parts and features.

[0025] One or more embodiments of the present disclosure provide systems and methods for facilitating vehicle navigation, particularly along a route of travel of a vehicle. More specifically, a vehicle system of the vehicle can implement systems and methods for providing a visualized route navigation to provide drivers as well as passengers with an improved navigation experience. For example, in one or more embodiments, a route overview with a clearer and simplified representation of the active route is displayed that improves the overall user experience. As described in more detail herein, instead of relying solely on detailed turn-by-turn directions or a conventional map view, one or more embodiments display the route as a straight line from the starting point to the destination. That is, the route overview is presented in a linear fashion that is easier for users to view and understand (e.g., a progress bar indicating the current position along the route, showing the vehicle’s progress in real-time along with visual representations related to the navigation route).

[0026] FIG. 1 illustrates a system 100 configured to implement one or more aspects of the various embodiments. As shown, the system 100 generally depicts a vehicle 102 that includes, without limitation, a user 104 (e.g., a driver) and a sensor suite 106 (e.g., a front sensor suite 106a and a back sensor suite 106b). In one or more examples, the sensor suite 106 is comprised of a plurality of sensors affixed to one or more bumpers of the vehicle 102 (or other locations of the vehicle), each of which can include, but is not limited to, one or more of GPS sensors, cameras, LIDAR sensors, radio detection and ranging (radar) sensors, and / or ultrasonic sensors. The sensor suite 106Attorney Docket No.: 0597-000045-WO-PQA Client Ref. No.: P240560WO can include a sensor suite controller 108 (e.g., a front sensor suite controller 108a and a back sensor suite controller 108b) therein, and while the sensor suite controller 108 is depicted as internally disposed within the sensor suite 106 it is understood that the sensor suite controller 108 can be located anywhere in relation to the sensor suite 106. It is also understood that the vehicle 102 can include a single, and centrally located sensor suite controller 108, with which the sensor suite 106 can communicate. The vehicle 102 also includes a vehicle-side algorithm 110 that is configured to serve as a vehicle system enabled to facilitate one or more functionalities of each of the described other components of the vehicle 102 (the sensor suite 106 and / or the sensor suite controller 108), as is described herein.

[0027] FIG. 2 illustrates a more detailed view of the sensor suite controller 108 of FIG. 1, according to various embodiments. The sensor suite controller 108 includes, without limitation, one or more of a LIDAR module 202, a radar module 204, a surround camera module 206, an ultrasound module 208, and a GPS module 210. It is understood that the sensor suite controller 108 can include other modules or components, such as other external-facing sensor modules and / or an external sensor fusion module (that integrates or combines outputs from one or more of the modules).

[0028] The LIDAR module 202 includes LIDAR sensors and associated processing circuitry that detects objects in an environment (associated with the vehicle 102 and measures the distance between those objects and the vehicle 102. The LIDAR module 202 illuminates a target object with an optical pulse signal and measures the characteristics of the return signal reflected off the object. The radar module 204 includes radar sensors and associated processing circuitry that detects the speed of objects in the environment associated with the vehicle 102 and measures the distance between those objects and the vehicle 102. The radar module 204 transmits radio waves towards a target object, where the radio waves strike and reflect off the object. The radar module 204 measures the characteristics of the return signal reflected off the object.

[0029] The surround camera module 206 includes surround view cameras and associated processing circuitry that detects objects in the environment associated with the vehicle 102 and measures the distance between those objects andAttorney Docket No.: 0597-000045-WO-PQA Client Ref. No.: P240560WO the vehicle 102. The surround camera module 206 captures images at various points around the perimeter of the vehicle 102. The surround camera module 206 stitches the images together and analyzes the images to estimate the location various objects illustrated in the images are from the vehicle 102 and estimates the distance between those objects and the vehicle 102.

[0030] The ultrasound module 208 includes ultrasound sensors and associated processing circuitry that detects objects in the environment associated with the vehicle 102 and measures the distance between those objects and the vehicle 102. The ultrasound module 208 transmits sound waves towards a target object, where the sound waves strike and reflect off the object. The ultrasound module 208 measures the characteristics of the return signal reflected off the object. Other externalfacing sensor modules include various additional sensors and associated processing circuitry that detects objects in the environment and measures the distance between those objects and the vehicle 102. Non-limiting examples of the external-facing sensor modules can include thermal imaging sensors, night vision sensors, among others.

[0031] The GPS module 210 includes a GPS receiver and / or other components configured to receive GPS signals and / or use GPS (or other navigation technology) to determine a current vehicle location based on location coordinates (e.g., GPS coordinates) received from a GPS network indicative of a location of the vehicle 102. It is understood that any transmitters, receivers, sensors, components, etc. may be used that allow for a GPS location determination for the vehicle 102 (e.g., determination of geographical information associated with the vehicle 102). For example, in one or more embodiments, the GPS module 210 is provided as part of a vehicle navigation system (e.g., a vehicle navigation mapping system) that allows for display of information relating to the location of the vehicle 102, a route for the vehicle 102, etc.

[0032] In one or more embodiments, additional modules or components may be provided as part of the sensor suite controller 108, such as an external sensor fusion module that integrates the output of one or more of the LIDAR module 202, the radar module 204, the surround camera module 206, the ultrasound module 208, and / or the GPS module 210. Accordingly, the external fusion module determines different types of information related to the vehicle, such as related to speed, landmarks, waypoints, etc.Attorney Docket No.: 0597-000045-WO-POA Client Ref. No.: P240560WO

[0033] Referring to FIG. 3, an example display system 300 is shown and generally includes one or more display units 302 (e.g., a plurality of display units 302a-302d as shown in FIG. 4) and a video display controller 304. In some examples, the display system 300 is implemented within the vehicle 102 to project content 306 (e.g., images, text, etc. related to route navigation) perceivable by a user 104 (e.g., also embodied as the user 104 as shown in FIG. 1 ). It is understood that the projected content 306 being perceivable in one or more embodiments means that the projected content 306 can be understood or reasonably interpreted by the user 104 (e.g., displayed in an orientation that is readable by the user 104 viewing a windshield of the vehicle 102). It is also understood that the user 104 can be a human operator of the vehicle 102, a passenger of the vehicle 102, or any other person associated with the operation and / or occupant of the vehicle 102.

[0034] It should be understood, however, that the display system 300 can be implemented within any general system wherein content may be projected to the user 104, such as any vehicle application, or a theater or classroom setting and is not limited to the examples described herein. In one or more examples, the projected content 306 can appear within an optical path 308 that originates from an eyebox 310 of the user 104 and represents at least a portion of a viewable range of the user 104. It is understood that the optical path 308 may vary based on the height of the eyebox 310 of the user 104 that can correspond (e.g., directly / indirectly) to a height of the user 104.

[0035] In one or more examples, one or more images are projected as a first light path 312 against a portion 314 (e.g., a display portion) of a surface 316 from the one or more display units 302. With particular reference to FIG. 4, an example system 400, in one or more embodiments, illustrates an implementation of the plurality of display units 302a-302d positioned over and along a dashboard 402 of the vehicle 102. It is understood, however, that the plurality of display units 302a-302d can be integrated within the dashboard 402 as well. It is also understood that the example system 400, in one or more embodiments, can implement a single display unit (not shown) that spans the entirety of the dashboard 402.

[0036] Referring back to FIG. 3, and as also depicted in FIG. 4, the surface 316 is a windshield of the vehicle 102. However, it is understood that the surface 316 canAttorney Docket No.: 0597-000045-WO-POA Client Ref. No.: P240560WO be any surface upon which content can be projected. As another example, the portion 314 of the surface 316 is a solid color-blocked band near an edge of the surface 316 (e.g., along a bottom of the windshield) that may gradually dissolve into minimally-sized dots (e.g., a frit). As yet another example, the portion 314 of the surface 316 can be a painted enamel that can be any color. However, it is understood that the portion 314 of the surface 316 can be colored with any type of paint, material, or process. As a further example, and because the portion 314 of the surface 316 causes the projected one or more images to be reflected, an inversion of the projected one or more images occurs and causes the projected one or more images to be displayed so that the projected content 306 is perceivable to the user 104 (e.g., viewable in the correct orientation). In one or more embodiments, the inverted form of the projected one or more images is represented by a second light path 318. In one or more examples, the projected content 306 displays a graphical view of the environment, as is described herein. It is understood that different display configurations are contemplated and the herein described display system 300, 400 is provided merely as an example.

[0037] In one or more embodiments, the video display controller 304 includes a memory 320 and a processor 322, wherein the processor 322 is configured to execute one or more instructions stored in the memory 320 to control an output of the display unit 302 (e.g., a route overview). It is understood that the processor 322 can represent an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field programmable gate array and / or a system on chip that can contain one or more interfaces including, but not limited to, a video interface, an audio interface, and / or any other interface related to a processing capability associated with the vehicle 102. It is also understood that the processor 322 can represent any other processing integrated circuit.

[0038] The video display controller 304 may control the display unit 302 and thereby cause the display unit 302 to project particular images and / or other data (or any content) based on the one or more instructions stored in the memory 320 and / or based on other inputs from the user 104. For example, a user input interface 324 and a vehicle input interface 326 may be used to provide one or more instructions to the video display controller 304 to control the display unit 302 based on user input (e.g., input from the user 104) and vehicle data / status, respectively. For example, user input to change a type ofAttorney Docket No.: 0597-000045-WO-POA Client Ref. No.: P240560WO information displayed (e.g., to select between instrument data such as speed / RPM / etc. and navigation data configured as a straight line route overview), to select options when a graphical user interface is displayed, and / or to otherwise indicate preferences of the user 104 are provided to the video display controller 304 and processed to alter a content, height, and / or format of the displayed data. As an example, the content may be any type of data (e.g., music files, video files, recorded sound waves, etc.). It is understood that the user input interface 324, in some examples, receives user input from any suitable user input device, including but not limited to a touch screen, vehicle-mounted actuators (e.g., buttons, switches, knobs, dials, etc. that may be integrated with a steering wheel of the vehicle 102), a microphone (e.g., for voice commands), an external device (e.g., a mobile device of a vehicle occupant), and / or other user input devices.

[0039] The vehicle input interface 326 receives data from one or more of the modules (see FIG.2), one or more vehicle sensors (not shown), and / or systems indicating a vehicle status and / or other vehicle data, which may be sent to the video display controller 304 to adjust the content and / or format of the displayed data, in one or more embodiments. For example, a current speed may be supplied (e.g., via a controller-area network (CAN) bus of the vehicle 102) to the vehicle input interface 326 and sent to the video display controller 304 to update the display of a current speed of the vehicle 102. The vehicle input interface 326 may also receive input from the GPS module 210 that interfaces and / or communications with a navigation system of the vehicle 102 and / or other information sources within the vehicle 102.

[0040] FIG. 5 illustrates a display arrangement 500 within the vehicle 102 in accordance with one or more embodiments. The display arrangement 500 in the illustrated example provides a straight-line visualization 502 with progress indication as described in more detail herein. The straight-line visualization 502 provides a navigation enhancement in one or more embodiments that allows users (e.g., a driver or passenger of the vehicle 102) to more easily interpret and understand a route overview. The straight-line visualization 502 is configured, for example, to present navigation and / or route information in a linear manner, such as in a landscape-type orientation instead of a portrait-type orientation. It is understood that the straight-line visualization 502 can be displayed alone or in combination with other vehicle and / or navigation information.Attorney Docket No.: 0597-000045-WO-POA Client Ref. No.: P240560WO

[0041] As can be seen, the straight-line visualization 502 is configured to be displayed (e.g., projected) on the portion 314 of the surface 316 (see FIG. 3) and the information displayed may be controlled using, for example, voice commands, user inputs received at an in-vehicle infotainment system via an infotainment screen 504, and / or touch inputs at one or more controls 506 of a steering wheel 508. It is understood that any type of input controls and / or commands may be used.

[0042] The one or more functionalities of the straight-line visualization 502 described herein provide the user 104 with an enhanced navigation awareness associated with the vehicle 102, in particular, the navigation route of the vehicle 102. The straight-line visualization 502 also facilitates improved understanding and visualization of guidance and route information presented to the user, which can also enhance safety of vehicle operation (e.g., a driver is able to focus more on driving operations and viewing the external environment to the vehicle 102).

[0043] In one or more embodiments, the display arrangement 500 is configured to present visualized vehicle operation and navigation information utilizing the sensor suite 106. That is, outputs from the sensor suite 106 are used to generate vehicle and / or navigation relevant information for display, such as the straight-line visualization 502, which is updated based on updated information received from the sensor suite 106 (e.g., received from the GPS module 210).

[0044] In one or more embodiments, the route overview represented by the display arrangement 500 is initialized automatically or manually. For example, the route overview can be automatically initialized in response to one or more user inputs relating to and starting a defined navigation route. As another example, the route overview can be manually initialized in response to a command from the user 104, which in some examples, allows for toggling on and off the display arrangement 500, changing the configuration of the display arrangement 500, changing the information presented by the display arrangement 500, etc.

[0045] In one or more examples, and regardless of the manner (e.g., automatic or manual) by which the display arrangement 500 is initialized, a symbolic view (e.g., a graphical view) of the navigation route is presented in a linear configuration, for example, represented as part of the straight-line visualization 502. That is, the Straight-Attorney Docket No.: 0597-000045-WO-PQA Client Ref. No.: P240560WO line visualization 502 in one or more embodiments is an abstracted and simplified view of the navigation route that is displayed panoramically on the portion 314 of the surface 316, as is shown more particularly in FIGS. 6A-6D. As can be seen and as described in more detail herein, the straight-line visualization 502 presents the route as a straight line 600 displayed from a starting point 602 to a destination point 604.

[0046] The straight-line visualization 502 in one or more embodiments is a symbolic view of the navigation route that can include one or more different graphical representations (e.g., landmarks, waypoints, etc.) along the straight line 600 and that can span a portion of or the entirety of the portion 314 of the surface 316, which corresponds to a similar width to that of a front end of the vehicle 102. In one or more examples, the width of the view that is narrow and stretches visually across a dashboard of the vehicle 102 provides an intuitive, and panoramic, display to the user 104 so that the user 104 can easily identify information related to the navigation route in an abstracted visualization. That is, the straight-line visualization 502 is presented as abstract oriented instead of map or GPS oriented.

[0047] The straight-line visualization 502 provide a linear collective view of the navigation information along the straight line 600 representative of a total navigation time from the starting point 602 to the destination point 604 with an estimated arrival time (ETA) 606 displayed above a vehicle icon 608 as the vehicle icon 608 moves along the straight line 600. That is, the ETA 606, which can be updated during the navigation (e.g., as the vehicle 102 travels along a route during a trip), is moved and displayed above the vehicle icon 608. This visual linking of the ETA 606 and the vehicle icon 608 facilitates an easier viewing and determination of, for example, the time to a next point of interest (POI) or the remaining trip time, while graphically representing a relative distance the vehicle has 102 has traveled as the vehicle is shown at different points along the straight line 600. It is understood that the vehicle icon 608 can move continuously, intermittently, periodically, etc.

[0048] In one or more embodiments, the straight line 600 represents a progress bar indicating a current position along the route (e.g., a relative distance traveled from the starting point 602 or towards the destination point 604). That is, the vehicle icon 608 identifies a progress of the travel of the vehicle 102 in real-time. As can be seen, theAttorney Docket No.: 0597-000045-WO-PQA Client Ref. No.: P240560WO vehicle icon 608 moves along the straight line 600 from the starting point 602 to the destination point 604. It is understood that the vehicle icon 608 can take any configuration including showing different features of the vehicle 102, such as the headlights being on.

[0049] One or more points of interest are displayed as POI icons 610 along the straight line 600 and represent, for example, rest stops, fuel stations, landmarks, upcoming events such as weather conditions, etc. The POI icons 610 are positioned to represent the relative distance of each of the POIs from the starting point 602 and the destination point 604, as well as from the vehicle 102. That is, the spacing to each of the POIs is representative of a relative distance. In one or more examples, upcoming events or landmarks are highlighted, such as by displaying the POI icon 610 with a higher brightness as well as presenting additional information related to the POI, such as the name of the POI and the time until arrival at the POI. After passing a POI, the ETA 606 is updated to correspond to the next POI or event. That is, time estimates for each section of the trip (defined between different POI icons 610) are displayed and updated, providing users with clear expectations for the travel time for the trip.

[0050] For example, FIG. 6A shows the ETA 606 to a fuel station represented by the POI icon 610a and FIG. 6C shows the ETA 606 to a food market represented by the POI icon 610c. FIG. 6B shows the ETA 606 replaced with a notification 615 indicating an upcoming event presented by the POI icon 610b, which in this example is rain and potential flooding. In one or more examples, a corresponding color-coded section 614 indicates an expected or predicted duration of travel through the upcoming event using a line an indication of added time (e.g., +8 minutes (min)) to the travel along the navigation route. In the illustrated example, the color-coded section 614 represents an area of slower traffic due to a weather condition. It is understood that the color-coded section 614 can represent any event or condition, such as hazards, traffic jams, etc. In one or more examples, for a weather alert, the notification 615 includes a call to action (“Slow Down Ahead”) and a weather alert description (“Rain and Flooding”).

[0051] In one or more examples, the upcoming waypoint, condition, etc. is also highlighted using a larger POI icon 610. That is, the next POI is highlighted by enlarging the size of the corresponding POI icon 610 relative to the other POI icons 610. And, as described in more detail herein, the POI icon 610 can also have additionalAttorney Docket No.: 0597-OOOQ45-WO-POA Client Ref. No.: P240560WO information displayed in connection therewith (e.g., the ETA and a waypoint description). In operation, in one or more example, in response to the vehicle 102 passing the waypoint, the POI icon 610 disappears and the next POI icon 610 corresponding to the upcoming waypoint or condition is displayed larger with more details provided (see, e.g., FIGS. 6A and 6B). Similarly, once the vehicle 102 passes the event or condition (e.g., weather condition) or the event or weather condition has ended, the notification 615 and corresponding POI icon 610b disappears and the POI icon 610 associated with the next waypoint is enlarged (see, e.g., FIGS. 6B and 6C).

[0052] Once the vehicle 102 passes the last waypoint or event or condition, all of the POI icons 610 have disappeared and the arrival time is shown as the ETA 606. That is, only the vehicle icon 608 and a destination icon 612 are displayed.

[0053] In one or more examples, a user can interact with the display arrangement 500 and in particular the route overview feature using different inputs and / or commands as described in more detail herein. For example, the infotainment screen 504 is configured to coordinate or facilitate the information to be presented by the display arrangement 500. That is, user inputs relating to the route navigation are received via the infotainment screen 504, which may be touchscreen allowing user interaction. For example, as shown in FIG. 7, a user interface includes an add feature (e.g., to add a waypoint or stop for the vehicle 102 along the route) that is selected using an Add Stop icon 702 and the route overview or navigation is terminated using an End Route icon 704. It is understood that any type of user interaction element or member may be displayed and the icons are merely provided as an example.

[0054] Continuing with the example, selection of the Add Stop icon 702 causes the infotainment screen 504 to present a different user interface as shown in FIG.8 that includes a Recents icon 706, a POI icon 708, and a voice personal assistant (VPA) icon 710. Using the Recents icon 706, the user is able to select a destination from recent destinations. Using the VPA icon 710, the user is able initiate a voice command, such as to add a new stop, set a new destination, etc. Using the POI icon 708 the user is able to access POIs to add to the navigation route, which will then appear along the straight line 600 as another POI icon 610. That is, the POI icon 610 is positioned in the straight-line visualization 502 along the navigation route relative to the other POI icons 610 and theAttorney Docket No.: 0597-000045-WO-PQA Client Ref. No.: P240560WO vehicle icon 608 based on a relative distance from the vehicle 102 (e.g., as determined by GPS coordinates).

[0055] Selection of the POI icon 708 causes the infotainment screen 504 to present a different user interface as shown in FIG. 9 that includes different categories of POIs. In the illustrated example, a fuel icon 712, a restaurants icon 714, and a parking icon 716 are presented corresponding to different waypoints for fuel, restaurants, and parking. It is understood that the POIs represented by the icon in FIG. 9 are merely for example and other POIs can be represented on the user interface or other user interfaces.

[0056] In the example, selection of the fuel icon 712 causes the infotainment screen 504 to present a different user interface showing, for example, the next two fuel stations along the route. It is understood that more or less fuel stations along the route may be displayed (e.g., in a list or graphical view). Selection of the parking icon 716 causes the infotainment screen 504 to present a different user interface showing, for example, the next two parking spots or parking lots along the route. It is understood that more or less parking spots or parking lots along the route may be displayed (e.g., in a list or graphical view). Selection of the restaurants icon 714 causes the infotainment screen 504 to present a different user interface as shown in FIG. 10 that displays the next two restaurants along the route with corresponding POI icons 610. It is understood that more or less restaurants along the route may be displayed (e.g., in a list or graphical view). As can be seen, the user interface provides additional information related to the restaurants, such as the rating for each restaurant and an estimated ETA based on the current location of the vehicle 102. In this example, the user selects a go icon 718 (as shown in FIG. 11 on the user interface) corresponding to a Burger House indicating that the POI is to be added to the straight line 600. As can be seen in FIG. 12, the POI icon 610 is added to the straight line 600 as an additional waypoint along the navigation route. The user interface shown in FIG. 13 is then displayed, which in various examples is a return to the main selection user interface shown in FIG. 7. It is understood that the user interfaces in one or more examples present only a limited number of next POIs for selection (e.g., the next two or next three POIs along the navigation route).

[0057] In one or more embodiments, a route overview is generated and displayed that provides one or more of the following:Attorney Docket No.: 0597-000045-WO-POA Client Ref. No.: P240560WO

[0058] 1. Improved Route Awareness - Drivers often find it challenging to comprehend the overall journey when faced with fragmented turn-by-turn directions. One or more embodiments provide a straightforward layout with a clear, big-picture view of the route, enabling drivers to anticipate upcoming landmarks, stops, weather conditions, and potential traffic jams.

[0059] 2. Reduced Cognitive Load Problem - Complex or cluttered map visuals can overwhelm drivers, particularly in high-traffic or stressful situations. One or more embodiments provide a simplified, straight-line overview that reduces distractions, allowing drivers to stay focused on the road.

[0060] 3. Progress Tracking - Drivers may feel unsure about how far they have traveled or how much of the route remains. One or more embodiments provide a linear view that displays real-time progress, helping drivers manage their expectations and timing.

[0061] 4. Navigation in Areas with Poor Connectivity - Traditional maps may not load properly in areas with weak GPS or internet signals. One or more embodiments provide a straight-line route that serves as a fallback option, providing a simplified guide even when detailed maps are unavailable.

[0062] 5. Journey Transparency - Passengers often depend on the driver or navigation prompts to know their location during the trip. One or more embodiments provide a route overview that provides a clear, at-a-glance understanding of the journey, minimizing the need for passengers to repeatedly ask the driver about their progress.

[0063] 6. Engagement and Anticipation - Long journeys can feel dull for passengers, as they lack a clear understanding of how far along they are on the trip. One or more embodiments provide a visual indicator of progress and upcoming waypoints keeps passengers engaged and helps them anticipate key moments, such as rest stops.

[0064] 7. Conflict Reduction - Passengers may question route choices or feel uncertain about detours. One or more embodiments provide for displaying the planned route that reduces ambiguity and ensures that everyone understands and agrees on the path.

[0065] 8. Child-Friendly Visualization - Younger passengers often struggle to understand traditional maps and frequently ask, "Are we there yet?". One or moreAttorney Docket No.: 0597-000045-WO-PQA Client Ref. No.: P240560WO embodiments provide a straightforward overview of the route that simplifies the journey concept, making it easier for children to track progress.

[0066] 9. Emergency Adaptability - In emergencies (e.g., sudden traffic jams or hazard warnings), explaining the route can be challenging. One or more embodiments provide a clear straight-line overview that highlights deviations and adjusts dynamically, ensuring that everyone understands the situation.

[0067] 10. Collaborative Navigation - Passengers may want to assist the driver but find detailed maps hard to interpret. One or more embodiments provide a simplified route overview that empowers passengers to help monitor progress or upcoming changes.

[0068] 11. Enhanced Travel Comfort - Uncertainty during travel can lead to stress or impatience. One or more embodiments provide a visual route overview that provides reassurance by clearly displaying progress and the remaining distance.

[0069] FIG. 14 is a flowchart illustrating an example method 800 for route navigation overview providing progress indication relative to a location of a vehicle (e.g., the vehicle 102). At operation 802, straight-line visualization of a navigation route is displayed. For example, as described herein, a linear display view is provided having abstracted information relating to the navigation route (e.g., an abstract level view of a navigation route overview). At operation 804, PCI icons along the straight-line visualization are displayed. For example, as described herein, one or more POI icons 610 are displayed along the straight-line visualization. As the vehicle travels along the navigation route, the straight-line visualization is updated at operation 806. For example, as described herein, the POI icons are differently highlighted or removed (disappear) from the straight-line visualization based on the location of the vehicle.

[0070] FIG. 15 illustrates an operating environment, such as a computer system, that facilitates the performance of one or more systems and methods described herein. More specifically, the systems and methods described herein can be implemented using a computing device 902. For example, the computing device 902 can be a personal computer, a desktop, a laptop, a tablet, a hand-held computer, a server, a workstation, a mainframe, a wearable computer, a supercomputer, or a combination thereof. However, it is understood that the aforementioned examples of the computing device 902 is non-Attorney Docket No.: 0597-000045-WO-POA Client Ref. No.: P240560WO exhaustive and the computing device 902 can be any type of processing or computing device. The computing device 902 generally includes a processor 904, a display adapter 906, one or more input / output port(s) 908, one or more input / output component(s) 910, a network adapter 912, a power supply 914, and a memory 916. However, it is understood that the computing device 902 can include any additional components therein and is not required to include any of the listed components (e.g., the processor 904, the display adapter 906, the one or more input / output port(s) 908, the one or more input / output component(s) 910, the network adapter 912, the power supply 914, and the memory 916).

[0071] The processor 904 is configured to provide instructions to the computing device 902 so that the computing device 902 can process one or more tasks including the implementation of a software program to perform one or more operations as described in more detail herein. It is also understood that the computing device 902 may include any number or processors 904 therein. The display adapter 906 can be a graphics card or a video board that provides the computing device 902 with a capability to display content on a display device 918. For example, the display device 918 can be any screen, monitor, and / or light-emitting component associated with any of the personal computer, the desktop, the laptop, the tablet, the hand-held computer, the server, the workstation, the mainframe, the wearable computer, the supercomputer, or a combination thereof. However, it is understood that the aforementioned examples of the display device 918 is non-exhaustive and that the display device 918 can be any type of device capable of providing a visual display.

[0072] The input / output port(s) 908 provide a number of interfaces (e.g., sockets) for one or more cables to connect to the computing device 902. It is understood that there may be any number of input / output port(s) 908 on the computing device 902. For example, the input / output port(s) 908 enables the computing device 902 to receive signals and / or data from an external device connected to the computing device 902 via the one or more cables. As another example, the input / output port(s) 908 enables the computing device 902 to send signals and / or data to an external device connected to the computing device 902 via the one or more cables. The input / output component(s) 910 can include one or more components that support the input / output port(s) 908 such as,Attorney Docket No.: 0597-000045-WO-PQA Client Ref. No.: P240560WO but not limited to, a switch, a push button, a pressure mat, a float switch, a keypad, a radio receive, or a combination thereof.

[0073] The network adapter 912 can be any type of network interface controller that enables communication over a network 920 with another computing device, such as a remote computing device 922. For example, the remote computing device 922 can be a user device such as a cellular-phone, a smartphone, a tablet, a laptop, or a combination thereof. The power supply 914 is configured to convert alternating high voltage current (e.g., AC) into direct current (e.g., DC) to provide power to the other components (e.g., the processor 904, the display adapter 906, the one or more input / output port(s) 908, the one or more input / output component(s) 910, the network adapter 912, and the memory 916) of the computing device 902.

[0074] Additionally, the memory 916 can be a mass storage device and / or a system memory such as a hard disk drive, a memory card, a solid-state drive, RAM, or a combination thereof. The memory 916 is configured to provide storage for instructions and data associated with the operation of the computing device 902. The memory 916 can generally include an operating system 924, display software 926, and display data 928 to perform one or more operations described in more detail herein, such as related to the generation and display of the straight-line visualization. For example, the operating system 924 is configured to manage and / or process any of the data and / or instructions associated with the display software 926 and / or the display data 928, as described in more detail herein.

[0075] Furthermore, a system bus 930 is also included within the computing device 902 that is configured to couple each of the various components (e.g., the processor 904, the display adapter 906, the one or more input / output port(s) 908, the one or more input / output component(s) 910, the network adapter 912, the power supply 914, and the memory 916) of the computing device 902. It is also understood that each of the components of the computing device 902, and the functionality associated with each of the components of the computing device 902, may be implemented within the remote computing device 922. While the operating environment illustrated within FIG. 15 depicts a particular configuration associated with at least the computing device 902, the networkAttorney Docket No.: 0597-000045-WO-PQA Client Ref. No.: P240560WO 920, and the remote computing device 922, it is understood that the operating environment may be configured in any way.

[0076] Unless otherwise expressly indicated herein, all numerical values indicating mechanical / thermal properties, compositional percentages, dimensions and / or tolerances, or other characteristics are to be understood as modified by the word “about” or "approximately" in describing the scope of the present disclosure. This modification is desired for various reasons including industrial practice, material, manufacturing, and assembly tolerances, and testing capability.

[0077] As used herein, the phrase at least one of A, B, and C should be construed to mean a logical (A OR B OR C), using a non-exclusive logical OR, and should not be construed to mean “at least one of A, at least one of B, and at least one of C.”

[0078] In this application, the term “controller” and / or “module” may refer to, be part of, or include: an Application Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC); a digital, analog, or mixed analog / digital discrete circuit; a digital, analog, or mixed analog / digital integrated circuit; a combinational logic circuit; a field programmable gate array (FPGA); a processor circuit (shared, dedicated, or group) that executes code; a memory circuit (shared, dedicated, or group) that stores code executed by the processor circuit; other suitable hardware components that provide the described functionality; or a combination of some or all of the above, such as in a system-on-chip.

[0079] The term memory is a subset of the term computer-readable medium. The term computer-readable medium, as used herein, does not encompass transitory electrical or electromagnetic signals propagating through a medium (such as on a carrier wave); the term computer-readable medium may therefore be considered tangible and non-transitory. Non-limiting examples of a non-transitory, tangible computer-readable medium are nonvolatile memory circuits (such as a flash memory circuit, an erasable programmable read-only memory circuit, or a mask read-only circuit), volatile memory circuits (such as a static random access memory circuit or a dynamic random access memory circuit), magnetic storage media (such as an analog or digital magnetic tape or a hard disk drive), and optical storage media (such as a CD, a DVD, or a Blu-ray Disc).Attorney Docket No.: 0597-000045-WO-POA Client Ref. No.: P240560WO

[0080] The apparatuses and methods described in this application may be partially or fully implemented by a special purpose computer created by configuring a general-purpose computer to execute one or more particular functions embodied in computer programs. The functional blocks, flowchart components, and other elements described above serve as software specifications, which can be translated into the computer programs by the routine work of a skilled technician or programmer.

[0081] The description of the disclosure is merely exemplary in nature and, thus, variations that do not depart from the substance of the disclosure are intended to be within the scope of the disclosure. Such variations are not to be regarded as a departure from the spirit and scope of the disclosure.

Claims

Attorney Docket No.: 0597-000045-WO-PQA Client Ref. No.: P240560WO CLAIMSWhat is claimed is:

1. A computer-implemented method, comprising:displaying a straight-line visualization of a navigation route for a vehicle, wherein the straight-line visualization is configured as a linear display view having abstracted information relating to the navigation route;displaying a plurality of point of interest (POI) icons along the straight-line visualization; andupdating the straight-line visualization as the vehicle travels along the navigation route corresponding to the straight-line visualization, wherein the updating includes modifying the plurality of POI icons based at least in part on a current location of the vehicle.

2. The computer-implemented method of claim 1, wherein updating the straight-line visualization comprises highlighting an icon of the plurality of icons corresponding to a POI closest to the current location of vehicle, wherein the highlighting comprises enlarging a size of the icon and adding additional information related to the POI.

3. The computer-implemented method of claim 1 , wherein displaying the straight-line visualization of the navigation route comprises displaying a single straight line along a panoramic view of a display of a dashboard of the vehicle.

4. The computer-implemented method of claim 1, further comprising adding one or more POI icons based on a user input received at an infotainment screen of the vehicle via one or more user interfaces.

5. The computer-implemented method of claim 4, wherein the one or more user interfaces present only a limited number of next POIs along the navigation route.Attorney Docket No.: 0597-000045-WO-PQA Client Ref. No.: P240560WO 6. The computer-implemented method of claim 1, wherein the straight-line visualization of the navigation route comprises a progress bar with a vehicle icon displayed in relation to the progress bar.

7. The computer-implemented method of claim 1, wherein the POI icons correspond to one or more waypoints and one or more events or conditions.

8. The computer-implemented method of claim 1, further comprising displaying an estimated time of arrival for a current section of the straight-line visualization corresponding to current location of the vehicle along the navigation route relative to a next POI.

9. The computer-implemented method of claim 1, further comprising removing a POI icon of the plurality of POI icons from the straight-line visualization in response to the vehicle passing the POI.

10. The computer-implemented method of claim 1, further comprising removing a POI icon of the plurality of POI icons from the straight-line visualization in response to an event or condition corresponding to a POI ending.

11. The computer-implemented method of claim 1 , further comprising receiving a user input to update the straight-line visualization, wherein the user input comprises a voice command, an infotainment system input, a steering wheel input, or a combination thereof.

12. A system comprising:a processor; anda non-transitory computer-readable medium including instructions that are executable by the processor, wherein the instructions include:displaying a straight-line visualization of a navigation route for a vehicle, wherein the straight-line visualization is configured as a linear display view having abstracted information relating to the navigation route;Attorney Docket No.: 0597-000045-WO-PQA Client Ref. No.: P240560WO displaying a plurality of point of interest (POI) icons along the straight-line visualization; andupdating the straight-line visualization as the vehicle travels along the navigation route corresponding to the straight-line visualization, wherein the updating includes modifying the plurality of POI icons based at least in part on a current location of the vehicle.

13. The system of claim 12, wherein the instructions further include:updating the straight-line visualization by highlighting an icon of the plurality of icons corresponding to a POI closest to the current location of vehicle, wherein the highlighting comprises enlarging a size of the icon and adding additional information related to the POI.

14. The system of claim 12, wherein displaying the straight-line visualization of the navigation route comprises displaying a single straight line along a panoramic view of a display of a dashboard of the vehicle.

15. The system of claim 12, wherein the instructions further include:adding one or more POI icons based on a user input received at an infotainment screen of the vehicle via one or more user interfaces.

16. The system of claim 15, wherein the one or more user interfaces present only a limited number of next POIs along the navigation route.

17. The system of claim 12, wherein the straight-line visualization of the navigation route comprises a progress bar with a vehicle icon displayed in relation to the progress bar.

18. The system of claim 12, wherein the POI icons correspond to one or more waypoints and one or more events or conditions.Attorney Docket No.: 0597-000045-WO-PQA Client Ref. No.: P240560WO 19. The system of claim 12, wherein the instructions further include:displaying an estimated time of arrival for a current section of the straight-line visualization corresponding to current location of the vehicle along the navigation route relative to a next POI.

20. The system of claim 12, wherein the instructions further include:at least one of removing a POI icon of the plurality of POI icons from the straight-line visualization in response to the vehicle passing the POI or removing a POI icon of the plurality of POI icons from the straight-line visualization in response to an event or condition corresponding to a POI ending.

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