Control system for climate control system

Abstract

Control system (10) for controlling a climate control system (20) of a vehicle (100), The climate control system (20) comprises a physical temperature sensor (22) corresponding to a first zone (122) within a cabin (120) of the vehicle (100), the cabin (120) of the vehicle (100) comprising the first zone (122) and at least one second zone (124), the control system (20) comprising one or more processor (12) collectively configured to: receive a temperature indicator (202) from the physical temperature sensor (22), the temperature indicator (202) indicative of a sensed temperature of the first zone (122); receive a target climate setpoint indicator (204) from the climate control system (20), the target climate setpoint indicator (204) indicative of a target climate setpoint to be provided by the climate control system (20); determine, based on the temperature indicator (202), the target climate setpoint indicator (204) and calibration data (206), a temperature compensation value corresponding to a difference between an expected temperature of the second zone (124) and the sensed temperature of the first zone (122) at the target climate setpoint, the calibration data (206) comprising a mapping between a given target climate setpoint indicator (204) and a given temperature indicator to a given expected temperature of the second zone (124); and output a virtual sensor value (208) for the second zone (124) based on the received temperature indicator (202) and the determined temperature compensation value.

Description

[0001] CONTROL SYSTEM FOR CLIMATE CONTROL SYSTEM

[0002] TECHNICAL FIELD

[0003] The present disclosure relates to a control system for a climate control system for a vehicle. Aspects of the invention relate to a control system for controlling a climate control system of a vehicle, to a system, to a vehicle, to a method for controlling a climate control system of a vehicle, and to computer readable instructions.

[0004] BACKGROUND

[0005] It is known to provide a temperature sensor within a cabin of a vehicle as part of a climate control system to determine the temperature in the cabin at that point, which may in turn be used to determine if a temperature setpoint (e.g. a user specified chosen temperature) in the cabin has been reached, or if not, guide how the climate control system operates to provide a temperature at that setpoint. To provide a simpler cabin and / or more simple cabin electronics, the amount of temperature sensors may be minimised, and the physical size of the temperature sensors may be reduced, to be more unobtrusive for users of the vehicle. However, as a result, sensitivity to temperature changes and ability to determine temperature differences throughout the vehicle cabin may disadvantageously be decreased.

[0006] It is an aim of the present invention to address one or more of the disadvantages associated with the prior art.

[0007] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0008] Aspects and embodiments of the invention provide a control system, a system, vehicle, a method, and computer-readable instructions as claimed in the appended claims.

[0009] According to an aspect of the present invention there is provided a control system for controlling a climate control system of a vehicle, the climate control system comprising a physical temperature sensor corresponding to a first zone within a cabin of the vehicle, the cabin of the vehicle comprising the first zone and at least one second zone, the control system comprising one or more processors collectively configured to: receive a temperature indicator from the physical temperature sensor indicative of a sensed temperature of the first zone; receive a target climate setpoint indicator from the climate control system, indicative of a target climate setpoint to be provided by the climate control system; determine, based on the temperature indicator and the target climate setpoint indicator, a temperature compensation value corresponding to a difference between an expected temperature of the second zone and the sensed temperature of the first zone at the target climate setpoint, and output the temperature compensation value to the climate control system to control the climate in the second zone.

[0010] Advantageously, the control system operates to provide a climate control system with an improved estimation of temperature, even in areas of the cabin where there is no physical temperature sensor located. By estimating the temperature compensation value representing a difference in temperature between a first zone having a physical temperature sensor, and a second zone without a physical temperature sensor, a second zone climate estimation can be determined. That is, by considering an indicator from a physical temperature sensor, a targetclimate setpoint indicator and calibration data, a better estimation of second zone climate may be quickly obtained.

[0011] According to an aspect of the present invention there is provided a control system for controlling a climate control system of a vehicle, the climate control system comprising a physical temperature sensor corresponding to a first zone within a cabin of the vehicle, the cabin of the vehicle comprising the first zone and at least one second zone, the control system comprising one or more processors collectively configured to: receive a temperature indicator from the physical temperature sensor, the temperature indicator indicative of a sensed temperature of the first zone; receive a target climate setpoint indicator from the climate control system, the target climate setpoint indicator indicative of a target climate setpoint to be provided by the climate control system; determine, based on the temperature indicator, the target climate setpoint indicator and calibration data, a temperature compensation value corresponding to a difference between an expected temperature of the second zone and the sensed temperature of the first zone at the target climate setpoint, the calibration data comprising a mapping between a given target climate setpoint indicator and a given temperature indicator to a given expected temperature of the second zone; and output a virtual sensor value for the second zone based on the received temperature indicator and the determined temperature compensation value.

[0012] Advantageously, the control system can control a climate control system which is capable of determining a virtual sensor for a zone within the cabin of the vehicle for determination of a climate / temperature of the zone without the requirement of a physical sensor being present within the zone. Therefore, fewer electronics and sensors are used in the cabin to physically sense temperature at different locations, and the control system is able to provide a virtual sensor reading for different locations without a physical sensor being present in all the different locations. This simplifies manufacturing involving the incorporation of sensor circuitry and provides for determination of temperature at different locations in the vehicle cabin.

[0013] A virtual sensor may be understood to relate to a simulated sensor, or a modelled sensed value at a second location with no physical sensor, determined based on a sensed value at a first location by a physical sensor at the first location, and some relationship between the first and second locations. The one or more processors may be collectively configured to determine sensor values for the virtual sensor, based on one or more indications received by the one or more processors. The determined sensor values for the virtual sensor may be used for subsequent processing steps. Accordingly, the virtual sensor provides signals for processing steps in relation to one or more areas within the cabin of the vehicle, without the presence of a physical sensor being located at said one or more areas within the cabin of the vehicle. Advantageously, a virtual sensor may reduce the number of physical components within the cabin of the vehicle, facilitating easier vehicle and in-vehicle electronics manufacturing and design, while maintaining functions provided to the one or more areas within the cabin.

[0014] The control system comprises one or more controllers collectively comprising at least one electronic processor having an electrical input for receiving an input signal; and at least one memory device electrically coupled to the at least one electronic processor and having instructions stored therein; and wherein the at least oneelectronic processor is configured to access the at least one memory device and execute the instructions thereon so as to: receive a temperature indicator from the physical temperature sensor, the temperature indicator indicative of a sensed temperature of the first zone; receive a target climate setpoint indicator from the climate control system, the target climate setpoint indicator indicative of a target climate setpoint to be provided by the climate control system; determine, based on the temperature indicator, the target climate setpoint indicator and calibration data, a temperature compensation value corresponding to a difference between an expected temperature of the second zone and the sensed temperature of the first zone at the target climate setpoint, the calibration data comprising a mapping between a given target climate setpoint indicator and a given temperature indicator to a given expected temperature of the second zone; and output a virtual sensor value for the second zone based on the received temperature indicator and the determined temperature compensation value.

[0015] Optionally, the climate control system may comprise an ambient temperature sensor; and the calibration data may comprise a mapping between a given target climate setpoint indicator, a given temperature indicator, and a given ambient temperature indicator, to a given expected temperature of the second zone. The one or more processors may be collectively configured to: receive an external ambient temperature indicator from the ambient temperature sensor, the ambient temperature indicator indicative of an external ambient temperature at a location of the vehicle; and determine, based on the temperature indicator, the target climate setpoint indicator, the ambient temperature indicator, and the calibration data, the temperature compensation value corresponding to a difference between an expected temperature of the second zone within the cabin of the vehicle and the sensed temperature of the first zone at the target climate setpoint.

[0016] Advantageously, the control system can control a climate control system taking into account other factors, i.e. the ambient temperature, that may affect the temperature that is experienced by an occupant, and may affect the output of the climate control system to be provided to provide a climate / temperature according to the target climate setpoint, thereby providing a more accurate virtual sensor value and improved climate control in different areas within the cabin.

[0017] Optionally, the calibration data may comprise a mapping to a given expected temperature of the first zone and the given expected temperature of the second zone at the target climate setpoint. The temperature compensation value may correspond to a difference between: an expected temperature of the first zone within the cabin of the vehicle and the sensed temperature of the first zone at the target climate setpoint; and the difference between the expected temperature of the second zone within the cabin of the vehicle and the sensed temperature of the first zone at the target climate setpoint.

[0018] Advantageously, the control system may take into account of an inherent inaccuracy / delay in the physical sensor value, corresponding to the first zone to subsequently improve the accuracy of the virtual sensor value.

[0019] The one or more processors may be collectively configured to: receive an airflow indicator, optionally from an air distribution unit, the airflow indicator indicative of an airflow provided by the air distribution unit to the cabin of the vehicle; receive an airflow temperature indicator, optionally from an air distribution unit temperaturesensor, the airflow temperature indicator indicative of a sensed temperature of the airflow provided by the air distribution unit to the cabin of the vehicle; determine an airflow offset, based on the airflow indicator and the airflow temperature indicator, corresponding to an effect on the expected temperature of the second zone within the cabin of the vehicle by the air distribution unit; and output an offset virtual sensor value for the second zone, based on the virtual sensor value and the airflow offset.

[0020] Optionally the climate control system may comprise said air distribution unit configured to provide air to the cabin of the vehicle, and / or said air distribution unit temperature sensor of the air distribution unit.

[0021] In some examples, the effect on the expected temperature of the second zone within the cabin by the air distribution unit may be the controlling of the climate within the second zone. That is, the effect may be an increase / decrease / maintenance in the temperature of the second zone based on the air provided by the air distribution unit.

[0022] Advantageously, the control system can control a climate control system taking into account other features of the climate control system that could affect the temperature that is experienced by an occupant and could affect the output of the climate control system, thereby providing a more accurate virtual sensor value.

[0023] Optionally, the air distribution unit may comprise one or more of: a second zone air unit configured to provide air to the second zone; a third zone air unit configured to provide air to a third zone different to the second zone; and wherein the air distribution temperature sensor may comprise one or more of: a first temperature sensor corresponding to the second zone air unit; and a second temperature sensor corresponding to the third zone air unit. In this way, the first temperature sensor may be considered to be a second zone air unit temperature sensor and the second temperature sensor may be considered to be a third zone air unit temperature sensor.

[0024] Advantageously, the control system may take into account other features and effects of the climate control system, in the further zone and other zones within the cabin, that could affect the temperature that is experienced by an occupant, thereby providing a more accurate virtual sensor value.

[0025] The one or more processors may be collectively configured to: receive a surface airflow indicator, optionally from a surface air unit, the surface airflow indicator indicative of an airflow provided by the surface air unit to a window within the vehicle; receive a surface airflow temperature indicator, optionally from a surface air unit temperature sensor, the surface airflow temperature indicator indicative of a sensed temperature of the surface airflow provided by the surface air unit to the window of the vehicle; determine a surface airflow offset, based on the surface airflow indicator and the surface airflow temperature indicator, corresponding to an effect on the expected temperature of a second zone within the cabin of the vehicle by the surface air unit; and output an offset virtual sensor value for the second zone, based on the virtual sensor value and the surface airflow offset.Optionally, the climate control system may comprise said surface air unit, configured to provide air to said window within the cabin of the vehicle to control moisture formation on the window, and / or said surface air unit temperature sensor, corresponding to the surface air unit.

[0026] Advantageously, the control system may take into account the other features of the climate control system that could affect the temperature that is experienced by an occupant, thereby providing a more accurate virtual sensor value. For example, the surface air unit may provide air to the cabin of the vehicle, to demist a window within the cabin of the vehicle, but this airflow providing a de-misting function may not provide a desired climate within a part of the cabin (for example, air flowing onto the windscreen may travel into the second zone and change the climate in that area). In this way, the air provided by the air surface unit may alter the temperature that is experienced by an occupant in the second zone. By accounting for this effect, the control system may provide a more accurate virtual sensor value for the second zone.

[0027] Optionally, the one or more processors may be collectively configured to: determine the offset virtual sensor value for the second zone, based on the virtual sensor value, the airflow offset and the surface airflow offset; and output the offset virtual sensor value for the second zone for comparison to the target climate setpoint of the control system to determine subsequent control of the climate control system.

[0028] Advantageously, the control system may take into account the other features of the climate control system that could affect the temperature that is experienced by an occupant, thereby providing a more accurate virtual sensor value.

[0029] Optionally, the target climate setpoint may indicate a target temperature level of the climate control system.

[0030] Advantageously, the control system aims to determine an accurate temperature value for a zone within the cabin of the vehicle not having a physical temperature sensor, based on a temperature level of the climate control system. A temperature level may be understood to relate to a temperature at which the climate control system is to provide air to the cabin of the vehicle and / or the target climate that is to be achieved by the provision of the air to the cabin of the vehicle.

[0031] Optionally, the target climate setpoint of the climate control system may be determined based on one or more of: a stored user setting associated with a user identified to be in the vehicle; a user input indicative of the target climate setpoint; and a target climate setpoint determined by the climate control system.

[0032] Advantageously, the control system for the climate control system may be configurable in different ways, providing a more flexible and occupant-friendly system.

[0033] Optionally, the one or more processors may be collectively configured to: compare the virtual sensor value to the target climate setpoint of the climate control system; based on the comparison, determine if the virtual sensor value corresponds to the target climate setpoint of the climate control system; if the virtual sensor value does not correspond to the target climate setpoint of the climate control system, control the climate controlsystem to adjust a current climate provided by the climate control system; and if the virtual sensor value does correspond to the target climate setpoint of the climate control system, control the climate control system to maintain the current climate provided by the climate control system.

[0034] In some examples, “corresponds to” may be understood to mean “equal to” or “within a predefined range of’ a setpoint.

[0035] Advantageously, the control system may use the virtual sensor value for status determination of the climate control system in the further zone, to provide an accurate temperature indication due to the improved virtual sensor value. This information may be used to improve climate control in the cabin in different areas / zones of the cabin by providing accurate performance given the current climate within the cabin of the vehicle.

[0036] Optionally, the first zone within the cabin of the vehicle may correspond to a driver zone in a first / front row within the cabin of the vehicle, and the second zone within the cabin of the vehicle may correspond to a passenger zone in the first row, or may corresponding to a second / rear row (behind the first / front row) within the cabin of the vehicle.

[0037] Advantageously, the control system may improve comfort for a user in a passenger zone not having a physical temperature sensor, by determining the virtual sensor value.

[0038] According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a system comprising any control system for controlling a climate control system of a vehicle as disclosed herein; and a physical temperature sensor corresponding to a first zone within a cabin of the vehicle.

[0039] In some examples, the system may further comprise an ambient temperature sensor configured to determine an external ambient temperature at a location of the vehicle.

[0040] According to an aspect of the present invention there is provided a vehicle comprising any system as disclosed herein; or any control system as disclosed herein.

[0041] According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a method for controlling a climate control system of a vehicle, the climate control system comprising a physical temperature sensor corresponding to a first zone within a cabin of the vehicle, the cabin of the vehicle comprising the first zone and at least one second zone, the method comprising: receiving a temperature indicator from the physical temperature sensor, the temperature indicator indicative of a sensed temperature of the first zone; receiving a target climate setpoint indicator from the climate control system, the target climate setpoint indicator indicative of a target climate setpoint to be provided by the climate control system; determining, based on the temperature indicator, the target climate setpoint indicator and calibration data, a temperature compensation value corresponding to a difference between an expected temperature of the second zone and the sensed temperature of the first zone at the target climate setpoint, the calibration data comprising a mapping between a given target climate setpoint indicator and a given temperature indicatorto a given expected temperature of the second zone; and outputtinga virtual sensor value for the second zone based on the received temperature indicator and the determined temperature compensation value.

[0042] In examples in which the climate control system comprises an ambient temperature sensor; and the calibration data comprises a mapping between a given target climate setpoint indicator, a given temperature indicator, and a given ambient temperature indicator, to a given expected temperature of the second zone. The method may comprise receiving an external ambient temperature indicator from the ambient temperature sensor, the ambient temperature indicator indicative of an external ambient temperature at a location of the vehicle; and determining, based on the temperature indicator, the target climate setpoint indicator, the ambient temperature indicator, and the calibration data, the temperature compensation value corresponding to a difference between an expected temperature of the second zone within the cabin of the vehicle and the sensed temperature of the first zone at the target climate setpoint.

[0043] According to an aspect of the present invention there are provided computer-readable instructions which, when executed by one or more processors, cause the one or more processors to perform any method as disclosed herein.

[0044] Within the scope of this application it is expressly intended that the various aspects, embodiments, examples and alternatives set out in the preceding paragraphs, in the claims and / or in the following description and drawings, and in particular the individual features thereof, may be taken independently or in any combination. That is, all embodiments and / or features of any embodiment can be combined in anyway and / or combination, unless such features are incompatible. The applicant reserves the right to change any originally filed claim or file any new claim accordingly, including the right to amend any originally filed claim to depend from and / or incorporate any feature of any other claim although not originally claimed in that manner.

[0045] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0046] One or more embodiments of the invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0047] Figure 1 shows a schematic representation of a cabin of a vehicle in accordance with embodiments of the invention;

[0048] Figures 2A-2B show block diagrams illustrating a control system for controlling a climate control system of a vehicle in accordance with embodiments of the invention;

[0049] Figure 3A shows another block diagram illustrating a control system for controlling a climate control system of a vehicle in accordance with embodiments of the invention;

[0050] Figure 3B shows a schematic representation of a cabin of a vehicle in accordance with embodiments of the invention;

[0051] Figure 4 shows a block diagram illustrating a system in accordance with embodiments of the invention; Figure 5 shows a vehicle in accordance with embodiments of the invention; and

[0052] Figure 6 shows a flow chart showing a method for controlling a climate control system of a vehicle in accordance with embodiments of the invention.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0053] Aspects and embodiments of the invention provide a control system for controlling a climate control system, a system, a vehicle, a method for controlling a climate control system, and computer readable instructions.

[0054] Examples disclosed herein comprise using a physical temperature sensor within a cabin of a vehicle to determine what the temperature would be if sensed in another part of the cabin, where there may not be a physical temperature sensor. Such a determination may be thought of as obtaining a temperature indication from a virtual sensor. A determination of the temperature in different parts of the cabin to where a physical temperature sensor is located may be used to control a climate control system in the vehicle to appropriately provide climate control to the different areas of the vehicle cabin, even if no physical temperature sensor is present in all those areas.

[0055] Figure 1 illustrates a schematic representation of a cabin 120 of a vehicle 100 in accordance with embodiments of the invention. The cabin 120 comprises a first zone 122 and at least one second zone 124. In the schematic representation within Figure 1 , the cabin 120 comprises three second zones 124. However, the number of second zones 124 may not be so limited. For example, the number of second zones 124 may correspond to the number of seats within the cabin 120 of the vehicle 100. The climate control system 20 comprises a physical temperature sensor 22 corresponding to the first zone 122. For example, the physical temperature sensor 22 may be located within or proximal to the first zone 122 so that it can sense the temperature (e.g. air temperature) within the first zone 122. In some examples, each of the second zones 124 may correspond to respective virtual sensors 30.

[0056] A virtual sensor 30 corresponding to a second zone 124 is also present; a “virtual” sensor is not a physical sensing device so virtual sensor 30 may be thought of as a location in the cabin at which an estimated temperature is determined according to the examples disclosed herein, as if there was a physical sensor present at that location 30. Thus, a “virtual” sensor may be understood to be a simulated sensor, or to relate to a modelled sensed value at a location with no physical sensor, determined based on a sensed value at another location by a physical sensor (e.g. temperature sensor 22) at that location (e.g. the first zone 122), and on some relationship between the two locations.

[0057] A climate control system 20 as shown in Figures 2A and 2B, described in more detail below, may provide one or more functions affecting the environment within a cabin 120 of a vehicle 100. The term “cabin” may refer to the cavity inside a vehicle 100, occupied by one or more occupants (e.g. the driver and / or one or more passengers) during use of the vehicle 100. The cabin 120 of the vehicle 100 may comprise one or more seats in which the occupants can sit. The one or more functions provided by the climate control system 20 may relate to heating, ventilation, and air conditioning, and may collectively be abbreviated as “HVAC”. The functions provided by the climate control system 20 may include aiding occupant comfort by controlling a climate within the cabin 120 of the vehicle 100, and / or providing a window de-misting function to clear condensation fromwindows of the vehicle. For example, the climate control system 20 may control the climate within the cabin 120 of the vehicle 100 through the provision of heated or cooled air to the cabin 120. The climate control system 20 may control the climate in accordance with a target climate setpoint. The target climate setpoint may indicate a climate to be achieved by the climate control system 20. For example, the target climate setpoint may indicate a target temperature level within the cabin 120. A temperature level may be understood to relate to a temperature at which the climate control system 20 is to provide air to the cabin 120 of the vehicle 100 and / or the target climate that is to be achieved by the provision of the air to the cabin 120 of the vehicle 100. That is, the target climate setpoint may inform the output of the climate control system 20. For example, the target climate setpoint may indicate the current / instantaneous output of the climate control system 20 in terms of the flow rate and discharge temperature of air (which may have been preconditioned by the climate control system 20) such that the target temperature level can be achieved within the cabin 120. In some examples, the climate control system 20 may account for a current temperature of the cabin 120 (e.g. such as that detected by temperature sensor 22) in addition to the target climate set point to determine the output of the climate control system 20 in the first zone 122 and / or the at least one second zone 124. Therefore, when determining a virtual sensor value within the second zone 124, the target climate setpoint is to be accounted for. The climate control system 20 may operate to provide air within a predefined range of temperatures, and the temperature level may be understood as a temperature within that predefined range by which the climate control system 20 is controlled.

[0058] In order to facilitate easier vehicle and in-vehicle electronics manufacturing and design, the sizing and number of temperature sensors within a cabin may be reduced. A further benefit of the reduction in sizing and amount of temperature sensors within a cabin is a less obstructed experience for occupants seated within the cabin. However, smaller temperature sensors may have a slower reaction to changes in the temperature. As such, it is a common drawback that an occupant experiences a change in a temperature before it is sensed by the temperature sensor (e.g. an occupant may get too hot while waiting for the temperature sensor to reach a target climate setpoint). Furthermore, it is common for a plurality of occupants to be seated within the cabin 120 simultaneously. The cabin 120 may be separated into one or more “zones”, each corresponding to an area within the cabin 120 in which an occupant is located. For example, a first zone 122 may describe an area (e.g. seat, row) in which a driver is located and a second zone 124 may describe a different area (e.g. seat, row) in which a passenger is located. Because climate control systems operate through the provision and distribution of air, a uniform climate throughout the cabin 120 can be difficult to achieve. Further, each respective occupant may desire a different climate within their respective zone. As such, the reduction in size and decrease in number of temperature sensors within a cabin 120 of vehicle 100 has led to difficulties in ensuring sufficient climate control function for all zones within a cabin 120. Conventionally, control systems for climate control systems may apply a static offset to a temperature sensor reading for estimating a climate in a zone not having a physical temperature sensor. However, such approaches do not accurately determine the climate of a zone within the cabin 120 in a zone not having a physical temperature sensor. As such, an improved control system 10 fora climate control system 20 is required. The present invention disclosed herein provides a solution to the above problems by way of providing a virtual sensor 30 for a climate control system 20 corresponding to at least one zone within the cabin 120 not corresponding to a physical temperature sensor 22.In some examples, the first zone 122 may correspond to a zone within the cabin 120 in which an occupant is usually positioned during use of the vehicle 100. The first zone 122 within the cabin 120 may correspond to a driver zone in a first row within the cabin 120. The second zone 124 within the cabin 120 may correspond to a zone within the vehicle 100 in which an occupant may or may not be located during use of the vehicle 100, such as a passenger zone in the first row and / or second row within the cabin 120. However, the present claimed invention may not be so limited. For example, the first zone 122 may correspond to a passenger zone in the second row of seating within the cabin 120 and the second zone 124 may correspond to any other passenger zone and / or the driver zone within the cabin 120. Other arrangements may be envisaged.

[0059] Figures 2A-2B show block diagrams illustrating a control system 10 for controlling a climate control system 20 of a vehicle 100 in accordance with embodiments of the invention. The climate control system 20 can be used to control the climate of a cabin 120 as illustrated in Figure 1. Figure 2A shows a control system 10 for controlling a climate control system 20 of a vehicle 100, which in this example shows the control system 10 as part of the climate control system 20. In other examples the control system 10 may be external to and in communication with the climate control system 20. The climate control system 20 comprises a physical temperature sensor 22 corresponding to the first zone 122 within the cabin 120. The cabin 120 comprising the first zone 122 and at least one second zone 124.

[0060] The climate control system 20 also comprises a control system 10 comprising one or more processors 12. The control system 10 (i.e. the one or more processors 12 of the control system 10) are collectively configured to receive a temperature indicator 202 from the physical temperature sensor 22. The temperature indicator 202 is indicative of a sensed temperature of the first zone 122. The control system 10 is configured to receive a target climate setpoint indicator 204 from the climate control system 20. The target climate setpoint indicator 204 is indicative of a target climate setpoint to be provided by the climate control system 20. For example, the target climate setpoint may be a desired cabin temperature requested by a vehicle occupant and, therefore, indicates an output level (e.g. discharge temperature of air and / or flow rate of air) of the climate control system 20, as described above.

[0061] The control system 10 is configured to determine sensor values for the virtual sensor 30 using the temperature indicator 202, the target climate setpoint indicator 204 and calibration data 206.

[0062] The control system 10 is configured to then determine, based on the temperature indicator 202, the target climate setpoint indicator 204, and the calibration data 206, a temperature compensation value. The temperature compensation value corresponds to a difference between an expected temperature of the second zone 124 and the sensed temperature of the first zone 122 at the target climate setpoint. The calibration data 206 comprises a mapping between a given target climate setpoint indicator and a given temperature indicator to a given expected temperature of the second zone 124.

[0063] The control system 10 is configured to then output a virtual sensor value 208 for the second zone 124 based on the received temperature indicator 202 and the determined temperature compensation value.The determined sensor values for the virtual sensor 30 may be used for subsequent processing steps, such as controlling the operation of the climate control system 20. Accordingly, the virtual sensor 30 “reading(s)” can be determined in relation to one or more zones 124 within the cabin 120, without the presence of a dedicated physical sensor (i.e. a temperature sensor 22) being located in all of those zones 124. Advantageously, determining virtual sensor “readings” allows for a reduction in the number of physical components within the cabin 120, facilitating easier vehicle and in-vehicle electronics manufacturing and design, while maintaining climate control functions provided to the one or more zones within the cabin 120.

[0064] With reference to Figure 2B, there is illustrated a control system 10 for a vehicle 100 similarly to Figure 2A. The control system 10 as illustrated in Figure 2B comprises one controller 110, although it will be appreciated that this is merely illustrative. The controller 110 comprises processing means 120 (e.g. processor 12) and memory means 130. The processing means 120 may be one or more electronic processing device 120 which operably executes computer-readable instructions. The memory means 130 may be one or more memory device 130. The memory means 130 is electrically coupled to the processing means 120. The memory means 130 is configured to store instructions, and the processing means 120 is configured to access the memory means 130 and execute the instructions stored thereon.

[0065] The controller 110 comprises an input means 140 and an output means 150. The input means 140 may comprise an electrical input 140 of the controller 110. The output means 150 may comprise an electrical output 150 of the controller 110. The input 140 is arranged to receive a signal 165 from a component 160 of the vehicle 100. In some examples the signal 165 may represent a temperature indicator 202, and / or a target climate setpoint indicator 204 as in Figure 2A. In some examples, each respective input signal 165 to the controller 110 may have a respective input means 140 associated thereto. The controller 110 may determine, based on the temperature indicator 202, the target climate setpoint indicator 204, and calibration data 206 (e.g. stored in the storage I memory means 130), a temperature compensation value corresponding to a difference between an expected temperature of a second zone 124 and a sensed temperature of a first zone 122 at the target climate setpoint. The output 150 is arranged to output a signal 155 to a component 160 of the vehicle 100. In some examples, the signal 155 may represent a virtual sensor value 208 for the second zone 124 for further use in functions relating to the climate control system 20. For example, the output 150 may be configured to output the virtual sensor value 208 for the second zone 124 for comparison to the target climate setpoint of the climate control system 20 to determine whether or not the virtual sensor value 208 corresponds to the target climate setpoint.

[0066] Using a control system 10 as in Figures 2A and 2B, a climate control system 20 can be controlled by providing a virtual sensor for a second zone 124 within a cabin 120 of a vehicle 100, based on a physical temperature sensor 22 within a first zone 122 of the cabin 120, and calibration data 206, so the climate control system 20 can provide climate control dependent on the temperature indicated by the virtual sensor. This approach differs to conventional systems which estimate a second zone climate by applying a static offset to a temperature indicator corresponding to a first zone. For example, for any value of a temperature indicator for the first zone, the second zone climate is assumed to be 2 degrees lower. However, such approaches do not account for thenonlinear relationship a temperature sensor 22 reading may have within a temperature range, or how other components within the cabin 120 may affect the climate within a second zone 124, as will be discussed below.

[0067] The advantageous effects of examples disclosed herein are also clear in situations when potentially problematic weather conditions are experienced. For example, in cold weather, fog / mist may form on windows within the cabin 120. To prevent fogging / misting or remove fog / mist from a window (i.e. “defogging” / ”demisting”), the climate control system 20 may provide a large volume of air to the cabin 120 within the vehicle 100, causing a significant change to the climate within the cabin 120 over a short period of time. As such, a delay in determining the climate within the first zone 122, and / or an inaccurate estimate for a climate in any second zone 124 of the cabin 120, may have noticeable effects to occupants in a vehicle. For example, inaccurate estimates for the climate in a second zone 124 may cause the second zone 124 to have a climate that is hotter or colder than the expected or requested temperature, making a target climate setpoint consistently unachievable.

[0068] As above, the control system 10 utilises calibration data 206 to determine the temperature compensation value. The calibration data 206 may be stored in a memory associated with the climate control system 20, accessible by the control system 10. The calibration data 206 comprises a mapping between a given target climate setpoint indicator (e.g. a requested temperature which the climate control system is to provide) and a given temperature indicator (e.g. a sensed temperature from a physical temperature sensor) to a given expected temperature of the second zone 124 (e.g. what the temperature in the second zone is expected to be because of the temperature sensed in the first zone, and a given target climate setpoint of a desired temperature).

[0069] The calibration data 206 may comprise a look-up table, a polynomial function, and / or one or more other representation of the relationship between the above factors. The calibration data 206 may be determined through experiment. For example, a vehicle 100 may be placed in a controlled environment and the response of a physical temperature sensor 22 associated with a first zone 122 of a vehicle 100 may be monitored in response to changes to a target climate setpoint in the first zone 122, and / or a target climate setpoint in at least one second zone 124. A controlled environment may be understood to be an environment in which dynamic equilibrium is achieved between the temperature within the cabin 120 and the temperature of the surrounding environment. That is, the controlled environment is an environment in which the temperature within the cabin 120 and the temperature of the surrounding environment are substantially constant with respect to each other. So, for example, the calibration data 206 may be obtained by setting an environment outside of the vehicle 100 to a particular temperature, e.g. 19 °C, and setting a target climate setpoint for the second zone 124. Once dynamic equilibrium is achieved (e.g. the temperature reading of the temperature sensor 22 stabilises), the reading of the temperature sensor 22 may be recorded. The process may be repeated for different target climate setpoints, so as to obtain a set of calibration data 206. The calibration data 206 thus indicates a relationship between a given target climate setpoint indicator and a given temperature indicator to an expected temperature of the second zone 124. In this way, an accurate representation of the physical temperature sensor 22 of the first zone 122 for the target climate setpoint of the second zone 124 may be determined. In some examples, a further physical temperature sensor may be temporarily positionedwithin at least one second zone 124 within the vehicle 100. In this way, the expected temperature within the at least one second zone 124 may be directly measured and stored as part of the calibration data 206.

[0070] Once the calibration data 206 is obtained, the temperature compensation value may be determined. For example, the stored values within the calibration data 206 represent the configuration of the climate control system 20, the reading of the temperature sensor 22 within the first zone 122 and, for each configuration and reading of the temperature sensor 22, the expected temperature for the second zone 124. In this way, the calibration data 206 represents a mapping to a “true” temperature reading of the second zone 124. To compensate the temperature reading of the temperature sensor 22 within the first zone 122, a difference between the reading of the temperature sensor 22 and the true / expected temperature reading of the second zone 124 within the calibration data 206 may be determined. The temperature compensation value may be represented by this difference and may be applied to the temperature reading of the temperature sensor 22 of the first zone 122 to determine the virtual sensor value 208 for the second zone 124.

[0071] In Figure 2A again, in some examples, the climate control system 20 may comprise an ambient temperature sensor 24. The ambient temperature sensor 24 may be configured to measure an external ambient temperature at a location of the vehicle 100 i.e. outside the cabin in the vehicle environment, e.g. located on a portion of the vehicle 100 exposed to the environment outside of the vehicle 100. The ambient temperature sensor 24 may be configured to determine an ambient temperature indicator 212. The ambient temperature indicator 212 may be indicative of an external ambient temperature at a location of the vehicle 100. In such examples, the calibration data 206 may comprise a mapping between a given target climate setpoint indicator, a given temperature indicator, and a given ambient temperature indicator, to a given expected temperature of the second zone 124. The ambient temperature sensor 24 may be functionally connected to the control system 10 (e.g. through a wired and / or wireless connection).

[0072] The one or more processors (i.e. the control system 10) may be collectively configured to receive an external ambient temperature indicator 212 from the ambient temperature sensor 24. Based on the temperature indicator 202, the target climate setpoint indicator 204, the ambient temperature indicator 212, and the calibration data 206, the control system 10 may be configured to determine the temperature compensation value. Advantageously, the climate control system 20 may take into account various information about the temperature inputs to the cabin 120 and, as such, more accurate estimates of cabin climate for respective zones may be obtained.

[0073] The calibration data 206 may still be obtained through experiment if accounting for external temperature. The vehicle 100 may be positioned in a controlled environment to characterise an expected temperature within the second zone 124 of the cabin 120. In addition to adjusting the target climate setpoint and waiting for dynamic equilibrium, the ambient temperature may also be adjusted. For example, the controlled environment may be configured to adjust an ambient temperature and, at each ambient temperature, the target climate setpoint may be adjusted and a reading for the physical temperature sensor 22 may be recorded when dynamic equilibrium is achieved. Advantageously, by taking into account ambient temperature, which is a dynamicquantity, the calibration data 206 used for determining the temperature compensation value may be more accurate during use.

[0074] In some examples, temperature sensors themselves may have inherent inaccuracies and / or delays to changes in their environment. For example, due to the reduction in size of sensors, caused by the need to provide a more simple and unobstructed electronics design of a vehicle cabin, the resulting sensors may be slow to react to changes in their environments. In this way, the calibration data 206 may comprise a mapping to a given expected temperature of the first zone 122 as well as the given expected temperature of the second zone 124 at the target climate setpoint. The calibration data 206 may comprise a mapping between a given target climate setpoint indicator and a given temperature indicator to both a given expected temperature of the first zone 122 and the given expected temperature of the second zone 124 at the target climate setpoint. The control system 10 may be configured to receive the given target climate setpoint indicator (e.g. a requested temperature which the climate control system 20 is to provide) and the given temperature indicator (e.g. a sensed temperature from a physical temperature sensor 22) as inputs to the calibration data 206 and, based on the mapping within the calibration data 206, receive the given expected temperature of the first zone 122 and the given expected temperature of the second zone 124 (e.g. what the temperature in the first and second zones are expected to be because of the temperature sensed in the first zone 122, and a given target climate setpoint of a desired temperature) as outputs from the calibration data 206.

[0075] In some examples, the temperature compensation value may correspond to a difference between an expected temperature of the first zone 122 within the cabin 120 and the sensed temperature of the first zone 122 at the target climate setpoint and the difference between the expected temperature of the second zone 124 within the cabin 120 and the sensed temperature of the first zone 122 at the target climate setpoint. Therefore, in obtaining the virtual sensor value 208 for the second zone 124, the temperature indicator 202 is compensated for the first zone 122, and then further compensated to obtain the virtual sensor value 208 for the second zone 124. In this way, a more accurate value for the virtual sensor value 208 may be obtained.

[0076] In some examples, other sources of data may be taken into account while maintaining an unobtrusive and simpler design of a vehicle cabin (and electronics). As above, the climate control system 20 may be configured to control a climate within the cabin 120 by distributing or providing air. Figure 3A illustrates a control system 10 comprising an air distribution unit 26 and a surface air unit 28. However, the control system 10 may not be so limited and may comprise the air distribution unit 26 and / or the surface air unit 28.

[0077] The surface air unit 28 may be configured to provide air to a surface within the cabin 120 to control moisture formation on the surface. For example, the surface may be a window of the cabin 120. The surface air unit 28 may be configured to control moisture formation on the surface by providing air that reduces the likelihood of condensation forming on the window, removing any condensation already present on the window, and / or defrosting any ice present on the window. The surface air unit 28 may provide a primary technical purpose within the cabin 120. In this way, the surface air unit 28 may provide air that is not in accordance with the target climate setpoint for a second zone 124 and which may affect the climate in the second zone 124. For example, to prevent ice formation on a window of the cabin 120, the air provided by the surface air unit 28 may be at atemperature higher than that provided by a second zone air unit. The air provided by the surface air unit 28 may travel to the second zone 124 and therefore affect the climate within the second zone 124, reducing the effect of the second air unit. The surface air unit 28 may be configured to determine a surface airflow indicator 218, which may be an indication of an airflow provided by the surface air unit 28 to the window of the vehicle 100. The surface air unit 28 may be configured to transmit the surface airflow indicator 218 to the control system 10. That is, the surface air unit 28 may be functionally connected to the control system 10 (e.g. through a wired and / or wireless connection).

[0078] The climate control system 20 may comprise a surface air unit temperature sensor 44, for example as part of the surface air unit 28. The surface air unit temperature sensor 44 may be configured to monitor performance of the surface air unit 28 by measuring the temperature of the air provided by the surface air unit 28. The surface air unit temperature sensor 44 may be configured to determine a surface airflow temperature indicator 220 based on the measurements of the air / airflow. The surface airflow temperature indicator 220 may indicate a sensed temperature of the airflow provided by the surface air unit 28 to a window within the cabin 120. The surface air unit temperature sensor 44 may be configured to transmit the surface airflow temperature indicator 220 to the control system 10. That is, the surface air unit temperature sensor 44 may be functionally connected to the control system 10 (e.g. through a wired and / or wireless connection), as is illustrated in Figure 3A. In other examples, the surface air unit temperature sensor 44 may be configured to transmit the surface airflow temperature indicator 220 to the surface air unit 28, such that the surface air unit 28 transmits both the surface airflow indicator 218 and the surface airflow temperature indicator 220 to the control system 10.

[0079] The control system 10 may thus be configured to receive the surface airflow indicator 218 and receive the surface airflow temperature indicator 220. The control system 10 may then be configured to determine a surface airflow offset, based on the surface airflow indicator 218 and the surface airflow temperature indicator 220. The surface airflow offset may correspond to an effect on the expected temperature of a second zone 124 within the cabin 120 by the surface air unit 28, as discussed above, whereby the air from the surface air unit 28 which may be intended to defrost a window, for example, travels to the second zone 124 and affects the impact of the climate control system 20 in that second zone 124. The control system 10 may be configured to access a memory of the control system 10 storing one or more of a mapping, a look-up table, and a model, to determine the surface air offset. The surface air offset may be based on experimental data. For example, the vehicle 100 may be positioned within a controlled environment and the effects on the expected temperature of the second zone 124 within the cabin 120 by the surface air unit 28 may be measured.

[0080] The control system 10 may output an offset virtual sensor value for the second zone 124, based on the virtual sensor value 208 and the surface airflow offset. Advantageously, the claimed invention takes account of other features of the climate control system 20 that could affect the temperature that is experienced by a user, thereby providing a more accurate virtual sensor value 208. Furthermore, by utilising sensors that are already present within the cabin 120 as part of the climate control system 20, the invention does not introduce more physical components within the cabin 120, facilitating easier vehicle and in-vehicle electronics manufacturing and design, while improving climate functions provided to one or more zones within the cabin 120.The air distribution unit 26 may be configured to provide the air to the cabin 120. For example, within some zones, air may be provided to an occupant’s feet, body, and / or face. The air distribution unit 26 may be configured to control and / or adjust an airflow rate of an airflow provided to the cabin 120. A flow rate of air provided to the cabin 120 relates to an amount of air that is being expelled or provided into the cabin 120 by the climate control system 20 per unit time. The air distribution unit 26 may comprise one or more blowers (e.g. comprising a rotating fan) to provide the airflow. The air distribution unit 26 may be configured to determine an airflow indicator 214. The airflow indicator 214 may be indicative of an air flow provided by the air distribution unit 26 to the cabin 120. For example, the airflow indicator 214 may indicate the airflow rate being provided by the air distribution unit 26. The air distribution unit 26 may be configured to transmit the airflow indicator 214 to the control system 10. That is, the air distribution unit 26 may be functionally connected to the control system 10 (e.g. through a wired and / or wireless connection).

[0081] As part of the climate control system 20, the control system 10 may be configured to provide air to the cabin 120 at a specific temperature level in accordance with the target climate setpoint. Therefore, to monitor conformity between performance of the air distribution unit 26 and the target climate setpoint, the air distribution unit 26 may comprise a temperature sensor 42. The air distribution temperature sensor 42 may be configured to measure the temperature of the air provided by the air distribution unit 26. The air distribution temperature sensor 42 may determine an airflow temperature indicator 216 based on the measurements of the air / airflow. The airflow temperature indicator 216 may indicate a sensed temperature of the airflow provided by the air distribution unit 26 to the cabin 120. The air distribution unit temperature sensor 42 may be configured to transmit the airflow temperature indicator 216 to the control system 10. That is, the air distribution unit temperature sensor 42 may be functionally connected to the control system 10 (e.g. through a wired and / or wireless connection), as is illustrated in Figure 3A. In other examples, the air distribution unit temperature sensor 42 may be configured to transmit the airflow temperature indicator 216 to the air distribution unit 26, such that the air distribution unit 26 transmits both the airflow indicator 214 and the airflow temperature indicator 216 to the control system 10.

[0082] The control system 10 may be configured to receive the airflow indicator 214, and receive the airflow temperature indicator 216. The control system 10 may then be configured to determine an airflow offset, based on the airflow indicator 214 and the airflow temperature indicator 216. The airflow offset may correspond to an effect on the expected temperature of the second zone 124 within the cabin 120 by the air distribution unit 26. For example, when an ambient temperature, and / or a target climate setpoint changes, the characteristics of the airflow provided by the air distribution unit 26 / climate control system 20 may change. For example, if an ambient temperature increases, the climate control system 20, may adjust one or more of the airflow rate and the airflow temperature of the air distribution unit 26, in order to maintain a climate within the cabin 120. As such, due to a change in airflow provided by the air distribution unit 26, the temperature within the cabin 120 may temporarily change while the climate control system 20 works to overcome the change in ambient temperature. As another example, the target climate setpoint may be changed (by the user or by the control system 10, as will be discussed). As such, the airflow and / or the temperature of the airflow may be adjusted. Due to this change in target climate setpoint, a change in output of the air distribution unit 26 and a change in measurement by a temperature sensor are expected.In examples, the control system 10 may be configured to access a memory of the control system 10 storing one or more of a mapping, a look-up table, and a model, to determine the airflow offset. In a similar way to the calibration data 206, the airflow offset may be based on experimental data. For example, the vehicle 100 may be positioned within a controlled environment and the effects on the expected temperature of the second zone 124 within the cabin 120 by the air distribution unit 26 may be measured.

[0083] The control system 10 may output an offset virtual sensor value for the second zone 124, based on the virtual sensor value 208 and the airflow offset. That is, the control system 10 may apply the airflow offset to the virtual sensor value 208 to obtain an airflow compensated virtual sensor value. Advantageously, the control system takes account of other features of the climate control system 20 that could affect the temperature that is experienced by an occupant, thereby providing a more accurate virtual sensor value 208. Furthermore, by utilising sensors that are already present within the cabin 120 as part of the climate control system 20, the invention does not introduce more physical components within the cabin 120, facilitating easier vehicle and in-vehicle electronics manufacturing and design, while improving climate functions provided to one or more zones within the cabin 120.

[0084] In some examples, the air distribution unit 26 comprises one or more of a second zone air unit 26b and a third zone air unit 26a, respectively configured to provide air to a second zone 124 and a third zone 126. The air distribution temperature sensor 42 may comprise one or more of a first temperature sensor 42b corresponding to the second zone air unit 26b; and a second temperature sensor 42a corresponding to the third zone air unit 26a. That is, the air distribution unit 26 and the air distribution temperature sensor 42 may comprise an air unit and corresponding temperature sensor for each of the zones within a vehicle 100. In this example, a “third” zone 126 is to be understood to be a zone within the vehicle 100 that is different to the second zone 124. That is, the third zone 126 may be the first zone 122, in which the physical temperature sensor 22 is located, or any other previously-labelled second zone 124.

[0085] Advantageously, the claimed invention takes account of other features of the climate control system 20, in the further zone and other zones within the cabin 120, that could affect the temperature that is experienced by a user, thereby providing a more accurate virtual sensor value 208. For example, with reference to Figure 3B, the second zone 124 may be positioned in the cabin 120 on a second row of seating, on the left hand side of the vehicle 100 and may comprise a respective air distribution unit 26b. Also seen illustrated in Figure 3B is a first zone 122 on a first row of seating on the right hand side of the vehicle 100 comprising a physical temperature sensor 22 and a third zone on the first row of seating on the left hand side of the vehicle 100 comprising a respective air distribution unit 26a. Within some vehicles, each zone of the cabin 120 may have respective climate controls. For example, the climate control system 20 settings for each zone may be independently varied e.g. by a user and have their own target climate setpoint. However, because the climate control system 20 operates based on the provision of air to the cabin 120, air intended fora specific zone may travel to another zone and influence the climate of the another zone. With reference to the schematic illustration of Figure 3B, the third zone 126 may have a target climate setpoint lower than a target climate setpoint of the second zone 124. In this way, the air from the third zone air unit 26a, being intended to achieve a target climatesetpoint for the third zone 126, may travel to the second zone 124 and reduce the effect of the second zone air unit 26b (e.g. heating effect of the second air unit). In this way, the air from the third zone may reduce a virtual sensor value 208 for the second zone 124. A similar effect may occur when the third zone 126 has a target climate setpoint higherthan a target climate setpoint of the second zone 124, thereby making the second zone 124 hotter than intended. In some examples, the air distribution unit 26 may comprise the second zone 124 air unit and air units for all other zones within the cabin 120. That is, the control system 10 is configured to compensate a virtual sensor value 208 for a second zone 124, while accounting for the travel of air within the cabin 120 intended for a different zone being intended for a different target climate setpoint.

[0086] While the above examples outline that an offset virtual sensor value for the second zone 124 may be based on the virtual sensor value 208 and either of the airflow offset orthe surface airflow offset, the present invention is not so limited. The control system 10 may be configured to determine the offset virtual sensor value for the second zone 124, based on the virtual sensor value 208, the airflow offset and the surface airflow offset. As such, the offset virtual sensor may take into account plural different components within the climate control system 20 that may affect the air provided to the second zone 124. In this way, the present invention aims to take into account more information about the inputs to the system (i.e. the cabin 120) and, as such, more accurate estimates of cabin 120 climate for respective zones may be obtained, while maintaining a simple cabin 120 construction.

[0087] The control system 10 can control the climate control system 20 in accordance with the target climate setpoint. The target climate setpoint may be determined based on a stored user setting associated with a user identified to be in the vehicle 100. A memory of the control system 10 may store the user setting corresponding to a chosen climate setpoint to be provided to the second zone 124 of the vehicle 100. The user may be identified by a user identification module configured to identify the user via one or more of a camera, a biometric sensor and a connection with one or more devices associated with the user (e.g. a mobile phone device, a wearable device, a car key, etc). In some examples, the target climate setpoint may be determined based on a user input indicative of the target climate setpoint, such as a setting input to a control element (button, dial, touchscreen etc) in the vehicle 100. The target climate setpoint may be determined automatically in some cases by the climate control system 20, for example based on a detected humidity level and / or temperature level. For example, the control system 10 may determine that moisture is likely to form in the cabin 120 (e.g. condensation on one or more window of the cabin 120) based on a current climate control system 20 climate setpoint. Therefore, the control system 10 may be configured to determine that a climate having demisting characteristics should be provided to the cabin 120 to prevent misting. It will be appreciated that one or more of these examples for determining the target climate setpoint may be taken in combination or in isolation.

[0088] To provide the climate control function of the climate control system 20, the control system 10 may be configured to compare the offset virtual sensor value and / or virtual sensor value 208 to the target climate setpoint. The control system may be configured to determine if a current configuration / setting for the climate control system 20 (e.g. the flow rate of an air distribution unit and / or the temperature of an air distribution unit) should be adjusted based on the target climate setpoint for the second zone 124 or if the target climate setpoint has been reached. The control system 10 may be configured to compare the virtual sensor value 208 to thetarget climate setpoint of the climate control system 20. Based on the comparison, the control system 10 may determine if the virtual sensor value 208 correspondsto the target climate setpoint of the climate control system 20. In examples, “corresponds to” may be understood to mean “equal to” or “within a predefined range of’ a setpoint. If the virtual sensor value 208 does not correspond to the target climate setpoint of the climate control system 20, the control system 10 may be configured to control the climate control system 20 to adjust a current climate provided by the climate control system 20. For example, if the virtual sensor value 208 is lower than the target climate setpoint for the second zone 124, the control system 10 may be configured to increase a temperature of air provided to the second zone 124 and / or increase an airflow rate of air provided to the second zone 124. In some examples, adjusting the current climate provided by the climate control system 20 may comprise maintaining a current configuration of the climate control system 20 (e.g. the climate control system 20 may already be in a configuration with the goal of increasing the virtual sensor value 208). If the virtual sensor value 208 does correspond to the target climate setpoint of the climate control system 20, the control system 10 may be configured to control the climate control system 20 to maintain the current climate provided by the climate control system 20. In this way, the control system 10 may be configured to continually determine the virtual sensor value 208 and / or the offset virtual sensor value to account for the dynamic conditions of the cabin 120 overtime. For example, as the cabin 120 climate changes overtime period, the temperature indicator 202 received by the control system 10 may also change in the same time period, which may subsequently lead to a change in the virtual sensor value and / or the offset virtual sensor value (which will be compared to the target climate setpoint of the climate control system 20). Advantageously, the claimed invention uses the virtual sensor value 208 for status determination of the climate control system 20 in the second zone 124, which is more accurate due to the improved virtual sensor value 208, thus preventing undesirable environments for an occupant / user.

[0089] Figure 4 illustrates a block diagram illustrating a system 500 in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. The system 500 comprises a control system 10 for controlling a climate control system 20 of a vehicle 100 as disclosed herein and a physical temperature sensor 22 corresponding to a first zone 122 within a cabin 120. In some examples, the system may comprise an ambient temperature sensor 24 which is configured to measure an external ambient temperature at a location of the vehicle 100.

[0090] Figure 5 illustrates a vehicle 100 in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. The vehicle 100 comprises the system 500 as disclosed herein, or the control system 10 as disclosed herein. In some examples, the vehicle 100 is a battery-powered vehicle for which the examples discussed herein advantageously provide an energy efficient way to operate the climate control system.

[0091] Figure 6 illustrates a method 60 according to an embodiment of the invention. The method 60 is a method of a climate control system 20 of a vehicle 100, such as the vehicle 100 illustrated in Figure 5. In particular, the method 60 is a method of controlling a climate control system 20 of a vehicle 100, the climate control system 20 comprising a physical temperature sensor 22 corresponding to a first zone 122 within a cabin 120 of the vehicle, the cabin 120 of the vehicle comprising the first zone 122 and at least one second zone 124. The method 60 may be performed by the control system 10 illustrated in Figure 1. This disclosure also covers computer-readable instructions which, when executed by the control system 10, cause the control system 10to perform the method 60 as disclosed herein. In some examples, the computer-readable instructions may be stored in a memory accessible by the one or more processors.

[0092] The method 60 comprises receiving 600 a temperature indicator 202 from the physical temperature sensor 22, the temperature indicator 202 indicative of a sensed temperature of the first zone 122; receiving 610 a target climate setpoint indicator 204 from the climate control system 20, the target climate setpoint indicator 204 indicative of a target climate setpoint to be provided by the climate control system 20; determining 620, based on the temperature indicator 202, the target climate setpoint indicator 204 and calibration data 206, a temperature compensation value corresponding to a difference between an expected temperature of the second zone 124 and the sensed temperature of the first zone 122 at the target climate setpoint, the calibration data 206 comprising a mapping between a given target climate setpoint indicator and a given temperature indicator to a given expected temperature of the second zone 124; and outputting 630 a virtual sensor value 208 for the second zone 124 based on the received temperature indicator and the determined temperature compensation value.

[0093] In some examples, the climate control system 20 may comprise an ambient temperature sensor 24; and the calibration data 206 may comprise a mapping between a given target climate setpoint indicator, a given temperature indicator, and a given ambient temperature indicator, to a given expected temperature of the second zone 124. The method 60 may comprise receiving an external ambient temperature indicator 212 from the ambient temperature sensor 24, the ambient temperature indicator 212 indicative of an external ambient temperature at a location of the vehicle; and determining, based on the temperature indicator 202, the target climate setpoint indicator 204, the ambient temperature indicator 212, and the calibration data 206, the temperature compensation value corresponding to a difference between an expected temperature of the second zone 124 within the cabin 120 of the vehicle and the sensed temperature of the first zone 122 at the target climate setpoint.

[0094] Throughout, reference to the control system 10 being configured to perform some function may be understood that the one or more processors of the control system 10 are collectively configured to perform the function.

[0095] It will be appreciated that various changes and modifications can be made to the present invention without departing from the scope of the present application.

Claims

CLAIMS1. A control system for controlling a climate control system of a vehicle, the climate control system comprising a physical temperature sensor corresponding to a first zone within a cabin of the vehicle, the cabin of the vehicle comprising the first zone and at least one second zone, the control system comprising one or more processors collectively configured to:receive a temperature indicator from the physical temperature sensor, the temperature indicator indicative of a sensed temperature of the first zone;receive a target climate setpoint indicator from the climate control system, the target climate setpoint indicator indicative of a target climate setpoint to be provided by the climate control system;determine, based on the temperature indicator, the target climate setpoint indicator and calibration data, a temperature compensation value corresponding to a difference between an expected temperature of the second zone and the sensed temperature of the first zone at the target climate setpoint, the calibration data comprising a mapping between a given target climate setpoint indicator and a given temperature indicator to a given expected temperature of the second zone; andoutput a virtual sensor value for the second zone based on the received temperature indicator and the determined temperature compensation value.

2. The control system of claim 1 , wherein the climate control system comprises an ambient temperature sensor; and the calibration data comprises a mapping between a given target climate setpoint indicator, a given temperature indicator, and a given ambient temperature indicator, to a given expected temperature of the second zone; andwherein the one or more processors are collectively configured to:receive an external ambient temperature indicator from the ambient temperature sensor, the ambient temperature indicator indicative of an external ambient temperature at a location of the vehicle; and determine, based on the temperature indicator, the target climate setpoint indicator, the ambient temperature indicator, and the calibration data, the temperature compensation value corresponding to a difference between an expected temperature of the second zone within the cabin of the vehicle and the sensed temperature of the first zone at the target climate setpoint.

3. The control system of any preceding claim, wherein the calibration data comprises a mapping to a given expected temperature of the first zone and the given expected temperature of the second zone at the target climate setpoint, andwherein the temperature compensation value corresponds to a difference between an expected temperature of the first zone within the cabin of the vehicle and the sensed temperature of the first zone at the target climate setpoint and the difference between the expected temperature of the second zone within the cabin of the vehicle and the sensed temperature of the first zone at the target climate setpoint.

4. The control system of any preceding claim, wherein the climate control system comprises an air distribution unit configured to provide air to the cabin of the vehicle, and an air distribution unit temperature sensor of the air distribution unit,wherein the one or more processors are collectively configured to:receive an airflow indicator from the air distribution unit, the airflow indicator indicative of an airflow provided by the air distribution unit to the cabin of the vehicle;receive an airflow temperature indicator from the air distribution unit temperature sensor, the airflow temperature indicator indicative of a sensed temperature of the airflow provided by the air distribution unit to the cabin of the vehicle;determine an airflow offset, based on the airflow indicator and the airflow temperature indicator, corresponding to an effect on the expected temperature of the second zone within the cabin of the vehicle by the air distribution unit; andoutput an offset virtual sensor value for the second zone, based on the virtual sensor value and the airflow offset.

5. The control system of claim 4, wherein the air distribution unit comprises one or more of:a second zone air unit configured to provide air to the second zone;a third zone air unit configured to provide air to a zone different to the second zone; and wherein the air distribution temperature sensor comprises one or more of:a first temperature sensor corresponding to the second zone air unit; anda second temperature sensor corresponding to the third zone air unit.

6. The control system of any preceding claim, wherein the climate control system comprises a surface air unit, configured to provide air to a window within the cabin of the vehicle to control moisture formation on the window, and a surface air unit temperature sensor, corresponding to the surface air unit,wherein the one or more processors are collectively configured to:receive a surface airflow indicator from the surface air unit, the surface airflow indicator indicative of an airflow provided by the surface air unit to the surface within the vehicle;receive a surface airflow temperature indicator from the surface air unit temperature sensor, the surface airflow temperature indicator indicative of a sensed temperature of the surface airflow provided by the surface air unit to the window of the vehicle;determine a surface airflow offset, based on the surface airflow indicator and the surface airflow temperature indicator, corresponding to an effect on the expected temperature of a second zone within the cabin of the vehicle by the surface air unit; andoutput an offset virtual sensor value for the second zone, based on the virtual sensor value and the surface airflow offset.

7. The control system of claim 6, when dependent on any one of claims 4 or 5, wherein the one or more processors are collectively configured to:determine the offset virtual sensor value for the second zone, based on the virtual sensor value, the airflow offset and the surface airflow offset; andoutput the offset virtual sensor value for the second zone for comparison to the target climate setpoint of the climate control system to determine subsequent control of the climate control system.

8. The control system of any preceding claim, wherein the target climate setpoint indicates a target temperature level of the climate control system.

9. The control system of any preceding claim, wherein the target climate setpoint of the climate control system is determined based on one or more of: a stored user setting associated with a user identified to be in the vehicle; a user input indicative of the target climate setpoint; and a target climate setpoint determined by the climate control system.

10. The control system of any preceding claim, wherein the one or more processors are collectively configured to:compare the virtual sensor value to the target climate setpoint of the climate control system; based on the comparison, determine if the virtual sensor value corresponds to the target climate setpoint of the climate control system;if the virtual sensor value does not correspond to the target climate setpoint of the climate control system, control the climate control system to adjust a current climate provided by the climate control system;if the virtual sensor value does correspond to the target climate setpoint of the climate control system, control the climate control system to maintain the current climate provided by the climate control system.11 . The control system of any preceding claim, wherein the first zone within the cabin of the vehicle corresponds to a driver zone in a first row within the cabin of the vehicle, and the second zone within the cabin of the vehicle corresponds to a passenger zone in the first row or second row within the cabin of the vehicle.

12. A system comprising:the control system for controlling a climate control system of a vehicle of any preceding claim; anda physical temperature sensor corresponding to a first zone within a cabin of the vehicle.

13. A vehicle comprising the system of claim 12 or the control system of claims 1 - 11.

14. A method for controlling a climate control system of a vehicle, the climate control system comprising a physical temperature sensor corresponding to a first zone within a cabin of the vehicle, the cabin of the vehicle comprising the first zone and at least one second zone, the method comprising: receiving a temperature indicator from the physical temperature sensor, the temperature indicator indicative of a sensed temperature of the first zone;receiving a target climate setpoint indicator from the climate control system, the target climate setpoint indicator indicative of a target climate setpoint to be provided by the climate control system;determining, based on the temperature indicator, the target climate setpoint indicator and calibration data, a temperature compensation value corresponding to a difference between an expected temperature of the second zone and the sensed temperature of the first zone at the target climate setpoint, the calibration data comprising a mapping between a given target climate setpoint indicator and a given temperature indicator to a given expected temperature of the second zone; andoutputting a virtual sensor value for the second zone based on the received temperature indicator and the determined temperature compensation value.

15. Computer readable-instructions which, when executed by one or more processors, cause the one or more processors to perform the method according to claim 14.

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