Method of controlling operation of a vehicle interface system, computer program, computer-readable medium, control arrangement, vehicle interface system, and vehicle

Abstract

A method (100) of controlling operation of a vehicle interface system (10) is disclosed. The vehicle interface system (10) comprises a control panel (1). The control panel (1) comprises a control region (3) and a haptic feedback arrangement (5). The control region (3) comprises a plurality of touch-sensitive areas (A1-A8) at least partially separated by physical structures (r2, r3). The method (100) comprises the steps of maintaining (110) the haptic feedback arrangement (5) in a deactivated state if two or more simultaneous touches are detected on the control region (3), and setting (120) the haptic feedback arrangement (5) in an activated state if only one touch is detected on the control region (3) in one of the plurality of touch-sensitive areas (A1-A8). The present disclosure further relates to a computer program, a computer-readable medium (200), a control arrangement (21), a vehicle interface system (10), and a vehicle (2).

Description

[0001] Method of Controlling Operation of a Vehicle Interface System, Computer Program, Computer-Readable Medium, Control Arrangement, Vehicle Interface System, and Vehicle

[0002] TECHNICAL FIELD

[0003] The present disclosure relates to a method of controlling operation of a vehicle interface system. The present disclosure further relates to a computer program, a computer-readable medium, a control arrangement configured to control operation of a vehicle interface system, a vehicle interface system comprising a control panel, as well as a vehicle comprising a vehicle interface system.

[0004] BACKGROUND

[0005] Vehicles normally comprise various vehicle functions that can be activated and deactivated via a human-machine interface (HMI). These vehicle functions may for example include adjusting the climate control, controlling an audio system, selecting drive modes, operating seat heaters, or activating exterior lighting. The HMI provides a means for the user to interact with these functions from within the vehicle cabin.

[0006] Traditionally, the HMI used to manage such functions has comprised a combination of pressable buttons and rotatable knobs physically integrated into the dashboard, or centre console of the vehicle. These components offer direct physical interaction, often with a clear mechanical response to user input.

[0007] In modern vehicles, however, it is increasingly common to use one or more touch-sensitive displays to manage a wide range of vehicle functions. A touch-sensitive display can combine visual information and control input in a single interface, thereby reducing the number of mechanical components and enabling a more flexible and space-efficient design of the vehicle interior.

[0008] Touch-sensitive displays typically operate based on capacitive or resistive sensing technology. In capacitive systems, the display detects the change in capacitance caused by the conductive properties of a finger of a user when it comes into contact with the surface. Resistive touch displays, on the other hand, detect pressure applied to the surface, typically by measuring the contact between multiple flexible layers. Capacitive displays are more commonly used in vehicles due to their durability and responsiveness.Touch-sensitive displays offer several advantages over traditional pressable buttons and rotatable knobs. They can be easily reconfigured to show different layouts and functions, for example depending on the driving mode or user preferences. This adaptability can also reduce the need for physical redesigns or hardware modifications when adding or modifying features through software updates. A touch-sensitive display may also provide a clean and integrated appearance, contributing to a modern and streamlined vehicle interior design.

[0009] However, one advantage of pressable buttons is that a user can feel that a button is being pressed and thereby receive a physical confirmation that the control input has been successfully registered. This confirmation may assure the user that a vehicle function has been activated or deactivated as intended. Such tactile feedback may be particularly important when the user is unable to keep continuous visual focus on the control interface, such as while driving.

[0010] A drawback of commonly used touch-sensitive displays is that the user does not receive the same kind of physical confirmation upon touching the display. The absence of mechanical resistance or click feedback may lead to uncertainty as to whether a function has been correctly activated or deactivated. As a result, the risk of unintended or faulty input can be higher when using a touch-sensitive display compared to a set of pressable buttons or rotatable knobs.

[0011] HMI interfaces are frequently used during vehicle operation, and ambiguities in the interaction with such interfaces can impair traffic safety. For example, if the driver has to look away from the road to verify whether a touch input has been recognised or whether a function has been correctly toggled, the level of attention to the driving environment may be reduced.

[0012] To address this, haptic feedback arrangements can be used in combination with touch-sensitive displays to provide tactile feedback upon detecting a touch input. A common haptic feedback system may include one or more actuators configured to generate a short vibration or movement of the display surface when a touch is registered. The user can then feel this vibration as a form of confirmation that the input has been detected. The haptic feedback may be localised to the touched area or applied to the entire display surface depending on the system design.

[0013] Despite the availability of haptic feedback systems, problems may still arise in touch-based HMIs when the system is unable to differentiate between intentional and unintentional userinput. There is therefore a need for improved touch-sensitive HMI systems that can help validate intentional user input and prevent faulty switches of activation states of vehicle functions. By increasing the reliability of input detection and reducing the risk of unintended control actions, such systems may contribute to both improved user interaction and enhanced traffic safety.

[0014] SUMMARY

[0015] It is an object of the present invention to overcome, or at least alleviate, at least some of the above-mentioned problems and drawbacks. The object is achieved by the subject-matter of the appended independent claim(s).

[0016] According to a first aspect of the present disclosure, the object is achieved by a method of controlling operation of a vehicle interface system, wherein the vehicle interface system comprises a control panel. The control panel comprises a control region and a haptic feedback arrangement. The haptic feedback arrangement is operable in an activated state and a deactivated state. The control region comprises a plurality of touch-sensitive areas at least partially separated by physical structures, wherein the method comprises the steps of: - maintaining the haptic feedback arrangement in the deactivated state if two or more simultaneous touches are detected on the control region, and

[0017] - setting the haptic feedback arrangement in the activated state if only one touch is detected on the control region in one of the plurality of touch-sensitive areas.

[0018] Thereby, a method is provided that is capable of ensuring that haptic feedback is delivered in a manner consistent with valid and intended user input. That is, by setting the haptic feedback arrangement in the activated state if only one touch is detected in one of the plurality of touch-sensitive areas, the user may recognise through tactile feedback that such input is interpreted as a valid control action. Moreover, by maintaining the haptic feedback arrangement in the deactivated state if two or more simultaneous touches are detected on the control region, the user may recognise through the absence of tactile feedback that the touch interaction has not been interpreted as a valid control action.

[0019] Thus, a method is provided that enables the user to receive tactile confirmations consistent with valid input on the control region. Additionally, the method may improve clarity of interaction by making it easier for the user to determine whether an input has been registered. As a further result, the method can contribute to a user-friendly interaction experience by making it easier for the user to understand when a valid input has been registered and when it has not.Moreover, the method can allow for safer interaction with the vehicle interface system, as the method reduces the need for a user to look at the control panel during interaction therewith, particularly during vehicle operation when visual attention is directed towards the driving environment. In this manner, the method can contribute to improved operational safety of a vehicle.

[0020] Furthermore, since the touch-sensitive areas are at least partially separated by physical structures, the user may be able to distinguish between adjacent areas by feel, without relying solely on visual input. This can enable more precise interaction with the interface, particularly during vehicle operation. The physical separation may thereby reduce the risk of unintended touches in touch-sensitive areas of the control region. However, if unintended input still occurs, the method can help avoid ambiguity by requiring that only a single touch is present in one of the plurality of touch-sensitive areas before providing haptic feedback as confirmation of user input. In other words, the combination of the physical separation between the plurality of touch-sensitive areas and the requirement for a single touch input before providing haptic feedback can together enable a user-friendly and safe interaction with the vehicle interface system.

[0021] Accordingly, a method is provided overcoming, or at least alleviating, at least some of the above-mentioned problems and drawbacks. As a result, the above-mentioned object is achieved.

[0022] According to embodiments herein, the haptic feedback arrangement is configured to output haptic feedback on the control region of the control panel upon operating in the activated state and is configured to not output haptic feedback on the control region of the control panel upon operating in the deactivated state. The haptic feedback, as referred to herein, may refer to a mechanical movement of the control region perceptible to a user through the sense of touch. The haptic feedback may, for example, be provided by vibrating the control region, displacing part of the control panel, and / or generating a mechanical impulse to the control region, for example using one or more actuators comprised in the haptic feedback arrangement. The haptic feedback may be localised to the touched touch-sensitive area or applied to the entire control region of the control panel.

[0023] Optionally, the control panel comprises a force sensing arrangement configured to detect a touching force applied to the control region, the method comprising:- maintaining the haptic feedback arrangement in the deactivated state if a touching force associated with a detected touch is below a threshold, and

[0024] - performing the step of setting the haptic feedback arrangement in the activated state only if the touching force associated with the detected touch exceeds the threshold.

[0025] In other words, according to some embodiments, the method comprises the steps of:

[0026] maintaining the haptic feedback arrangement in the deactivated state if two or more simultaneous touches are detected on the control region or if a touching force associated with a detected touch is below a threshold, and

[0027] setting the haptic feedback arrangement in the activated state if only one touch is detected on the control region in one of the plurality of touch-sensitive areas and the touching force associated with the detected touch exceeds the threshold.

[0028] Thereby, haptic feedback can be provided only in response to deliberate and sufficiently firm single touch input, which may reduce the likelihood of unintended confirmations resulting from accidental or light contact with the control region. This can further improve the reliability of the interface and enhance the user’s confidence in the interaction, particularly during vehicle operation. This may create conditions for increased operational safety of a vehicle, as it can allow the user to interact with the control panel with reduced uncertainty and without needing to divert visual attention from the driving environment. In addition, the tactile confirmation resulting from the haptic feedback may resemble the input experience of a physical push button, making the interface more intuitive and easier to operate.

[0029] Optionally, each of the plurality of touch-sensitive areas is associated with a vehicle function, the method comprising:

[0030] - maintaining activation states of all vehicle functions associated with the plurality of touch- sensitive areas if two or more simultaneous touches are detected on the control region, and

[0031] - switching the activation state of the vehicle function associated with a touch-sensitive area if only one touch is detected on the control region in that touch-sensitive area.

[0032] Thereby, a method is provided that is capable of improving the reliability of controlling vehicle functions via the vehicle interface system. That is, by maintaining the activation states of all vehicle functions if two or more simultaneous touches are detected on the control region, the method can prevent unintended switching actions caused by accidental or unclear input involving more than one touch. Moreover, by allowing the activation state of a vehicle function to be switched only when a single touch is detected in a defined touch-sensitivearea, the method can ensure that each input results in a clearly intended change to a specific vehicle function.

[0033] Thus, the method can contribute to more predictable and consistent interaction with the vehicle interface system, where the risk of unintentional changes to a vehicle function is reduced. In addition, by providing haptic feedback in connection with switching the activation state of a vehicle function, the user may receive direct tactile confirmation that the activation state has been changed. This can strengthen the link between the user input and the resulting behaviour of the vehicle interface system, allowing the user to understand when a vehicle function has been activated or deactivated without needing to check visually. The feedback may reduce hesitation or repeated input attempts and help minimise distraction during vehicle operation. This may be particularly beneficial during driving, where distractions from incorrect or uncertain input can affect the user’s ability to stay focused on the driving environment. In this way, the method may create conditions for increased operational safety of a vehicle by enabling confident and unambiguous interaction with the vehicle interface system.

[0034] Optionally, the control panel comprises a force sensing arrangement configured to detect a touching force applied to the control region, the method comprising:

[0035] - maintaining activation states of all vehicle functions associated with the plurality of touch- sensitive areas if a touching force associated with a detected touch is below a threshold, and

[0036] - switching the activation state of the vehicle function associated with a touch-sensitive area if the touching force associated with the detected touch exceeds the threshold.

[0037] In other words, according to some embodiments, the method comprises the steps of:

[0038] maintaining activation states of all vehicle functions associated with the plurality of touch- sensitive areas if two or more simultaneous touches are detected on the control region or if a touching force associated with a detected touch is below a threshold, and switching the activation state of the vehicle function associated with a touch-sensitive area if only one touch is detected on the control region in that touch-sensitive area and the touching force associated with the detected touch exceeds the threshold.

[0039] Thereby, a method is provided that can enable switching of vehicle functions only in response to deliberate and sufficiently firm single-touch input, where the input is clearly associated with a specific touch-sensitive area and exceeds a defined force threshold. This can reduce the likelihood of unintended function changes resulting from accidental or lightcontact, such as may occur during normal handling of the control region. The combination of force detection and input location can improve the reliability of the interface and enhance the user’s confidence in using the control panel during vehicle operation.

[0040] Thus, the method can support more consistent and intuitive interaction with the control panel, where the user receives clear feedback and where only well-defined inputs result in a change of vehicle function. In this way, the user can understand when a vehicle function has been switched, which can help reduce distraction and hesitation. The method can thereby contribute to improved operational safety by allowing the user to interact with the control panel with reduced uncertainty while maintaining focus on the driving environment.

[0041] Optionally, the method comprises, in response to setting the haptic feedback arrangement in the activated state and / or in response to switching an activation state of a vehicle function: - outputting a visual confirmation in the touch-sensitive area associated with the activated vehicle function.

[0042] Thereby, a method is provided that is capable of providing the user with clear visual confirmation that a valid input has been registered on the control region. That is, by outputting a visual confirmation in the touch-sensitive area associated with the activated vehicle function, the user may quickly recognise which vehicle function has been affected. This can reduce uncertainty and help a user feel confident that an intended input has been registered.

[0043] Optionally, the step of outputting comprises:

[0044] - illuminating a portion of the touch-sensitive area in which the activating touch was detected.

[0045] Thereby, method is provided that can visually highlight an area in which an activating touch was detected. That is, by illuminating a portion of the touch-sensitive area in which the activating touch was detected, the user may more easily see where input has been registered. This can reduce confusion between adjacent touch-sensitive areas and improve interaction clarity, particularly in low-light conditions.

[0046] Optionally, the step of outputting comprises:

[0047] - displaying a symbol in the touch-sensitive area in which the activating touch was detected.Thereby, a method is provided that can output additional visual information related to the activated vehicle function. That is, by displaying a symbol in the touch-sensitive area in which the activating touch was detected, the user may be informed of the current status and / or identity of the vehicle function affected by the input. This can support a clearer and more intuitive interaction with the vehicle interface system, and reduce the risk of uncertainty or misinterpretation during use.

[0048] Optionally, the vehicle interface system further comprises an audio unit controllable to emit audio signals, and wherein the method comprises:

[0049] - outputting an audio signal via the audio unit in response to setting the haptic feedback arrangement in the activated state and / or in response to switching an activation state of a vehicle function.

[0050] Thereby, a method is provided that can give the user audible feedback in connection with valid input on the control region. That is, by outputting an audio signal in response to setting the haptic feedback arrangement in the activated state and / or switching an activation state of a vehicle function, the user may receive a sound-based confirmation that the input has been registered. This can complement the tactile feedback and help ensure that the user perceives a clear response, even when not looking directly at the control panel. In this way, the method can contribute to increased operational safety of a vehicle.

[0051] According to a second aspect of the present disclosure, the object is achieved by a computer program comprising instructions which, when the program is executed by a control arrangement of a vehicle interface system, cause the control arrangement to carry out the method according to the first aspect of the present disclosure. Since the computer program comprises instructions to cause the control arrangement to carry out the method according to the first aspect of the present disclosure, a computer program is provided which provides conditions for overcoming, or at least alleviating, at least some of the above-mentioned drawbacks. As a result, the above-mentioned object is achieved.

[0052] According to a third aspect of the present disclosure, the object is achieved by a computer-readable medium comprising instructions which, when executed by a control arrangement of a vehicle interface system, cause the control arrangement to carry out the method according to the first aspect of the present disclosure. Since the computer-readable medium comprises instructions to cause the control arrangement to carry out the method according to the first aspect of the present disclosure, a computer-readable medium is provided which providesconditions for overcoming, or at least alleviating, at least some of the above-mentioned drawbacks. As a result, the above-mentioned object is achieved.

[0053] According to a fourth aspect of the present disclosure, the object is achieved by a control arrangement configured to control operation of a vehicle interface system, wherein the vehicle interface system comprises a control panel. The control panel comprising a control region and a haptic feedback arrangement. The haptic feedback arrangement is operable in an activated state and a deactivated state, and wherein the control region comprises a plurality of touch-sensitive areas at least partially separated by physical structures. The control arrangement is configured to:

[0054] - maintain the haptic feedback arrangement in the deactivated state if two or more simultaneous touches are detected on the control region, and

[0055] - set the haptic feedback arrangement in the activated state if only one touch is detected on the control region in one of the plurality of touch-sensitive areas.

[0056] Thereby, a control arrangement is provided that is capable of ensuring that haptic feedback is delivered in a manner consistent with valid and intended user input. That is, by setting the haptic feedback arrangement in the activated state if only one touch is detected in one of the plurality of touch-sensitive areas, the user may recognise through tactile feedback that such input is interpreted as a valid control action. Moreover, by maintaining the haptic feedback arrangement in the deactivated state if two or more simultaneous touches are detected on the control region, the user may recognise through the absence of tactile feedback that the touch interaction has not been interpreted as a valid control action.

[0057] Thus, a control arrangement is provided that enables the user to receive tactile confirmations consistent with valid input on the control region. Additionally, the control arrangement may improve clarity of interaction by making it easier for the user to determine whether an input has been registered. As a further result, the control arrangement can contribute to a user-friendly interaction experience by making it easier for the user to understand when a valid input has been registered and when it has not.

[0058] Moreover, the control arrangement can allow for safer interaction with the vehicle interface system, as the control arrangement reduces the need for a user to look at the control panel during interaction therewith, particularly during vehicle operation when visual attention is directed towards the driving environment. In this manner, the control arrangement can contribute to improved operational safety of a vehicle.Furthermore, since the touch-sensitive areas are at least partially separated by physical structures, the user may be able to distinguish between adjacent areas by feel, without relying solely on visual input. This can enable more precise interaction with the interface, particularly during vehicle operation. The physical separation may thereby reduce the risk of unintended touches. However, if unintended input still occurs, the control arrangement can help avoid ambiguity by requiring that only a single touch is present in one of the plurality of touch-sensitive areas before providing haptic feedback as confirmation of user input. In other words, the combination of the physical separation between the plurality of touch-sensitive areas and the requirement for a single touch input before providing haptic feedback can together enable a user-friendly and safe interaction with the vehicle interface system.

[0059] Accordingly, a control arrangement is provided overcoming, or at least alleviating, at least some of the above-mentioned problems and drawbacks. As a result, the above-mentioned object is achieved.

[0060] It will be appreciated that the various embodiments described for the method are all combinable with the control arrangement as described herein. That is, the control arrangement according to the fourth aspect of the invention may be configured to perform any one of the method steps of the method according to the first aspect of the invention.

[0061] Optionally, the control panel comprises a force sensing arrangement configured to detect a touching force applied to the control region, and wherein the control arrangement is configured to:

[0062] - maintain the haptic feedback arrangement in the deactivated state if a touching force associated with a detected touch is below a threshold, and

[0063] - set the haptic feedback arrangement in the activated state only if the touching force associated with the detected touch exceeds the threshold.

[0064] In other words, according to some embodiments, the control arrangement is configured to:

[0065] maintain the haptic feedback arrangement in the deactivated state if two or more simultaneous touches are detected on the control region or if a touching force associated with a detected touch is below a threshold, and

[0066] set the haptic feedback arrangement in the activated state if only one touch is detected on the control region in one of the plurality of touch-sensitive areas and the touching force associated with the detected touch exceeds the threshold.Thereby, haptic feedback can be provided only in response to deliberate and sufficiently firm touch input, which may reduce the likelihood of unintended confirmations resulting from accidental or light contact with the control region. This can further improve the reliability of the interface and enhance the user’s confidence in the interaction, particularly during vehicle operation. This may create conditions for increased operational safety of a vehicle, as it can allow the user to interact with the control panel with reduced uncertainty and without needing to divert visual attention from the driving environment. In addition, the tactile confirmation resulting from the haptic feedback may resemble the input experience of a physical push button, making the interface more intuitive and easier to operate.

[0067] According to a fifth aspect of the present disclosure, the object is achieved by a vehicle interface system comprising a control panel. The control panel comprises a control region and a haptic feedback arrangement. The haptic feedback arrangement is operable in an activated state and a deactivated state. The control region comprises a plurality of touch-sensitive areas at least partially separated by physical structures, and wherein the vehicle interface system comprises a control arrangement according to the fourth aspect of the present disclosure.

[0068] Since the vehicle interface system comprises a control arrangement according to the fourth aspect of the present disclosure, a vehicle interface system is provided that is capable of ensuring that haptic feedback is delivered in a manner consistent with valid and intended user input. In other words, a vehicle interface system is provided that enables the user to receive tactile confirmations consistent with valid input on the control region with improved clarity of interaction by making it easier for the user to determine whether an input has been registered.

[0069] As a further result, the vehicle interface system can contribute to a user-friendly interaction experience by making it easier for the user to understand when a valid input has been registered and when it has not. Moreover, the vehicle interface system can allow for safer interaction through a reduced need for a user to look at the control panel during interaction therewith, particularly during vehicle operation when visual attention is directed towards the driving environment. In this manner, the vehicle interface system can contribute to improved operational safety of a vehicle.

[0070] Moreover, since the touch-sensitive areas are at least partially separated by physical structures, the user may be able to distinguish between adjacent areas by feel, without relying solely on visual input. This can enable more precise interaction with the vehicleinterface system, particularly during vehicle operation. The physical separation may thereby reduce the risk of unintended touches. However, if unintended input still occurs, the control arrangement can help avoid ambiguity by requiring that only a single touch is present in one of the plurality of touch-sensitive areas before providing haptic feedback as confirmation of user input. In other words, the combination of the physical separation between the plurality of touch-sensitive areas and the requirement for a single touch input before providing haptic feedback can together enable a user-friendly and safe interaction with the vehicle interface system.

[0071] Accordingly, a vehicle interface system is provided overcoming, or at least alleviating, at least some of the above-mentioned problems and drawbacks. As a result, the above-mentioned object is achieved.

[0072] Optionally, the physical structures comprise one or more of a protrusion, a recess, a ridge, a groove, or an edge between inclined or stepped surfaces. Thereby, it can be ensured that the user may be able to distinguish between adjacent touch-sensitive areas by feel, without relying solely on visual input. That is, by comprising one or more of a protrusion, a recess, a ridge, a groove, or an edge between inclined or stepped surfaces, the physical structures may provide clear tactile guidance on the control region. This can reduce the risk of input errors and enable more confident and precise interaction with the vehicle interface system, particularly during vehicle operation.

[0073] Optionally, each touch-sensitive area comprises a display section controllable to display different types of symbols. Thereby, the vehicle interface system can present visual information directly within the touch-sensitive area to which the input relates. That is, by displaying different types of symbols in the respective display sections, the user may be informed about the identity and / or status of the vehicle function associated with each touch-sensitive area. This can improve clarity during interaction and reduce the risk of selecting an unintended vehicle function. In addition, since each touch-sensitive area comprises a display section controllable to display different types of symbols, the displayed symbols may be adapted in response to user settings or software updates, which can support flexible and up-to-date presentation of vehicle functions.

[0074] According to a sixth aspect of the present disclosure, the object is achieved by a vehicle comprising a vehicle interface system according to the fifth aspect of the present disclosure.Since the vehicle comprises a vehicle interface system according to the fifth aspect of the present disclosure, a vehicle is provided capable of ensuring that haptic feedback is delivered in a manner consistent with valid and intended user input. In other words, the vehicle interface system of the vehicle can enable a user to receive tactile confirmations consistent with valid input on the control region with improved clarity of interaction by making it easier for the user to determine whether an input has been registered.

[0075] As a further result, the vehicle interface system of the vehicle can contribute to a user-friendly interaction experience by making it easier for the user to understand when a valid input has been registered and when it has not. Moreover, the vehicle interface system of the vehicle can allow for safer interaction through a reduced need for a user to look at the control panel during interaction therewith, particularly during operation of the vehicle when visual attention is directed towards the driving environment. In this manner, improved operational safety of the vehicle can be obtained.

[0076] Moreover, since the touch-sensitive areas of the vehicle interface system are at least partially separated by physical structures, the user may be able to distinguish between adjacent areas by feel, without relying solely on visual input. This can enable more precise interaction with the vehicle interface system of the vehicle, particularly during operation thereof. The physical separation may thereby reduce the risk of unintended touches. However, if unintended input still occurs, the control arrangement can help avoid ambiguity by requiring that only a single touch is present in one of the plurality of touch-sensitive areas before providing haptic feedback as confirmation of user input. In other words, the combination of the physical separation between the plurality of touch-sensitive areas and the requirement for a single touch input before providing haptic feedback can together enable a user-friendly and safe interaction with the vehicle interface system of the vehicle.

[0077] Accordingly, a vehicle is provided overcoming, or at least alleviating, at least some of the above-mentioned problems and drawbacks. As a result, the above-mentioned object is achieved.

[0078] Optionally, the vehicle is a heavy wheeled vehicle. Thereby, a heavy wheeled vehicle is provided having at least some of the above-mentioned advantages.

[0079] Further features of, and advantages with, the present invention will become apparent when studying the appended claims and the following detailed description.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0080] Various aspects of the present disclosure, including its particular features and advantages, will be readily understood from the example embodiments discussed in the following detailed description and the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0081] Fig. 1 schematically illustrates a vehicle, according to some embodiments,

[0082] Fig. 2 schematically illustrates a vehicle interface system of the vehicle illustrated in Fig. 1, Fig. 3 schematically illustrates a side view of the vehicle interface system illustrated in Fig. 2, Fig. 4 schematically illustrates the vehicle interface system illustrated in Fig. 2, and a finger of a user,

[0083] Fig. 5 illustrates the vehicle interface system illustrated in Fig. 4, in which the finger has been removed,

[0084] Fig. 6 illustrates the vehicle interface system illustrated in Fig. 2, and two fingers of a user, Fig. 7 schematically illustrates a method of controlling operation of a vehicle interface system, and

[0085] Fig. 8 illustrates a computer-readable medium.

[0086] DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0087] Aspects of the present disclosure will now be described more fully. Like reference signs refer to like elements throughout. Well-known functions or constructions will not necessarily be described in detail for brevity and / or clarity.

[0088] Fig. 1 schematically illustrates a vehicle 2 according to some embodiments. According to the illustrated embodiments, the vehicle 2 is a truck, i.e., a type of heavy wheeled vehicle, as well as a type of heavy commercial vehicle. According to further embodiments, the vehicle 2, as referred to herein, may be another type of heavy or lighter type of manned or unmanned vehicle for land- or water-based propulsion such as a lorry, a construction vehicle, a tractor, a bus, a car, a ship, a boat, or the like.

[0089] The vehicle 2 may comprises a propulsion system configured to provide motive power to the vehicle 2 via wheels 27, 27’ of the vehicle 2. The propulsion system may comprise an electric machine, an internal combustion engine, or a combination thereof. According to the illustrated embodiments, the vehicle 2 is a wheeled vehicle comprising a number of wheels 27, 27’.

[0090] The number of wheels 27, 27’ of the vehicle 2 is supported relative to a chassis 40 of the vehicle 2 via wheel axles. According to some embodiments, the vehicle 2 may comprise awheel suspension system resiliently suspending the wheels 27, 27’ of the vehicle 2 relative to the chassis 40. The chassis 40 of the vehicle 2 serves as a structural framework that supports other components and systems of the vehicle 2, such as the propulsion system and a cab 45 of the vehicle 2.

[0091] That is, as is seen in Fig. 1 , according to the illustrated embodiments, the vehicle 2 comprises a cab 45. According to the illustrated embodiments, the cab 45 is resiliently suspended relative to the chassis 40. The cab 45 accommodates an occupant compartment 55. The occupant compartment 55 is arranged to accommodate one or more vehicle occupants, such as a driver and possibly one or more passengers. According to the illustrated embodiments, the occupant compartment 55 also comprises a driver environment of the vehicle 2. The term "driver environment” refers to the area within the vehicle 2 where a driver operates and controls the vehicle 2. The driver environment typically includes the driver's seat, steering wheel, pedals, dashboard, and other control interfaces that the driver may use to manage functions of the vehicle 2.

[0092] The vehicle 2 further comprises a vehicle interface system 10. According to the illustrated embodiments, the vehicle interface system 10 is arranged inside the occupant compartment 55 of the vehicle 2. In more detail, according to the illustrated embodiments, the vehicle interface system 10 is arranged in the driver environment of the vehicle 2, such that a driver, sitting in a dedicated driver seat, can interact with a control panel of the vehicle interface system 10, using one or more fingers, as is further explained herein.

[0093] Fig. 2 schematically illustrates the vehicle interface system 10 of the vehicle 2 illustrated in Fig. 1. As can be seen in Fig. 2, and as is indicated above, the vehicle interface system 10 comprises a control panel 1. The control panel 1 comprises a control region 3 comprising a plurality of touch-sensitive areas A1-A8. As is further explained herein, each of the plurality of touch-sensitive areas A1-A8 is associated with a respective vehicle function of the vehicle comprising the vehicle interface system 10. In Fig. 2, the control panel 1 is illustrated as seen straight towards the control region 3 thereof.

[0094] Fig. 3 schematically illustrates a side view of the vehicle interface system 10 illustrated in Fig. 2. That is, in Fig. 3, the control panel 1 of the vehicle interface system 10 is illustrated as seen from the side of the control region 3. Below, simultaneous reference is made to Fig. 1 -Fig. 3, if not indicated otherwise.The control panel 1 comprises a display 8 and a force sensing arrangement 7. The display 8 is touch-sensitive, meaning that it is configured to detect the presence and location of a touch on the control region 3. The force sensing arrangement 7 is configured to detect a touching force applied to the control region 3.

[0095] The display 8 may be of any suitable type capable of visually presenting information in the control region 3. For example, the display 8 may comprise a liquid crystal display (LCD), an organic light-emitting diode (OLED) display, or any other display technology suitable for integration in a vehicle interface system 10. The display 8 may extend beneath the control region 3 such that different symbols or visual indications can be presented within each of the touch-sensitive areas A1-A8. The displayed content may be static or dynamic and may be adapted based on user input, current vehicle state, or software updates, as is further explained herein. Since the control panel 1 comprises a display 8, the control panel 1 may also be referred to as display panel, a touch-sensitive display panel, or the like.

[0096] The force sensing arrangement 7 may be based on any suitable force sensing principle, such as capacitive, resistive, piezoelectric, or strain gauge technology. It may comprise one or more sensors arranged to detect a mechanical force applied to the control region 3. The force sensing arrangement 7 may be integrated in one or more layers of the control panel 1, for example between the display 8 and a transparent outer surface of the control region 3. In use, the display 8 may be configured to detect the presence and location of a touch on the control region 3, for example using a capacitive touch sensing layer integrated in or on top of the display 8. The force sensing arrangement 7 may be configured to measure a magnitude of a touching force associated with the detected touch. Thereby, the display 8 and the force sensing arrangement 7 together enable detection of both touch location and touching force on the control region 3.

[0097] The touch-sensitive areas A1-A8 are at least partially separated by physical structures r2, r3. According to the illustrated embodiments, the physical structures r2, r3 comprises a set of elongated ridges separating the control region 3 into the plurality of touch-sensitive areas A1-A8. However, according to further embodiments, the physical structures r2, r3, as referred to herein, may comprise one or more of a protrusion, a recess, a ridge, a groove, or an edge between inclined or stepped surfaces. According to the illustrated embodiments, the control region 3 comprises eight touch-sensitive areas A1-A8. However, according to further embodiments, the control region 3 may comprise another number of touch-sensitive areas A1-A8 at least partially separated by physical structures r2, r3, such as a number between two and forty, or a number between four and twenty.The feature that the touch-sensitive areas A1-A8 are at least partially separated by physical structures r2, r3 means that a physical boundary is formed by the physical structures r2, r3 between adjacent touch-sensitive areas A1-A8, such that the boundary can be sensed by touch. The physical structures r2, r3 may extend above or below the surface of the control region 3, or comprise a sharp contour or edge that can be sensed by touch, and may serve to form a tactile transition between neighbouring touch-sensitive areas A1-A8. The physical separation does not necessarily require complete isolation between the touch-sensitive areas A1-A8 but may involve a partial tactile distinction sufficient to indicate a boundary between adjacent touch-sensitive areas A1-A8 when a user's finger is moved across the control region 3.

[0098] According to the illustrated embodiments, the control region 3 is surrounded by a physical structure r1 comprising two edges that, together with an inclined surface extending between the two edges, define a height difference relative to adjacent portions of the front surface of the control panel 1. In the illustrated embodiments, the control region 3 is raised relative to the surrounding front surface, but in other embodiments, it may instead be recessed.

[0099] Furthermore, the physical structure r1 may, in other embodiments, comprise other types of tactile structures, such as a ridge, a groove, a protrusion, or a recess. By these features, the physical structure r1 can provide tactile guidance to a user, allowing the boundary of the control region 3 to be sensed by feel without relying solely on visual input. This may help the user to recognise where the control region 3 begins and ends.

[0100] According to the illustrated embodiments, the plurality of touch-sensitive areas A1-A8 together constitute the entire control region 3. However, in other embodiments, the control region 3 may include additional touch-sensitive portions that are not part of any one of the plurality of touch-sensitive areas A1-A8 as referred to herein. Furthermore, according to the illustrated embodiments, the touch-sensitive areas A1-A8 are shaped as equally sized rectangular buttons, defined by the surrounding physical structure r1 and separated by the physical structures r2 and r3. Due to their shape and interactive function, the touch-sensitive areas A1-A8 may also be referred to as touch-sensitive buttons. In other embodiments, the touch-sensitive areas A1-A8 may have a different shape, such as square, circular, oval, or another geometrical or freeform shape, and may be of different sizes.

[0101] According to the illustrated embodiments, each touch-sensitive area A1-A8 comprises a display section, i.e., a section of the display 8, wherein the display section is controllable to display different types of symbols s1-s8. In Fig. 2, schematic symbols s1-s8 have beenillustrated. Each touch-sensitive area A1-A8, including the symbol s1-s8, displayed in the display section of the touch-sensitive area A1-A8 may be associated with a vehicle function of the vehicle 2 comprising the vehicle interface system 10.

[0102] For example, the vehicle functions associated with the touch-sensitive areas A1-A8 may include interior lighting, cabin temperature settings, fan speed control, defrost, window lifting, mirror adjustment, seat heating or ventilation, and media functions such as audio volume, source selection, or track navigation. In the case of heavy vehicles such as trucks, the vehicle functions may for example further include lifting or lowering a tag axle, adjusting chassis height, engaging or disengaging a differential lock, initiating a cargo unloading operation, activating a work light, or enabling a power take-off mode. In the case of heavy vehicles such as buses, the vehicle functions may for example further include controlling interior lighting for passengers, operating a kneeling function to lower an entry step into the vehicle, switching destination signs, adjusting climate settings for the passenger compartment, or managing the opening and closing of passenger doors. The symbols s1-s8 may be selected to visually represent the respective vehicle functions.

[0103] The control panel 1 further comprises a haptic feedback arrangement 5. According to the illustrated embodiments, the haptic feedback arrangement 5 is attached to the control panel 1 , at a backside thereof. Moreover, as schematically depicted in Fig. 3, the control panel 1 is resiliently suspended relative to a portion 14 of the vehicle 2 via a number of resilient mounting members 11. The portion 14 of the vehicle 2 may be a portion of a dashboard of the vehicle 2.

[0104] The haptic feedback arrangement 5 may comprise one or more actuators configured to generate a mechanical output that is perceptible as haptic feedback in the control region 3. The actuator or actuators may be arranged to impart motion to the control panel 1 when the haptic feedback arrangement 5 operates in an activated state. The motion may comprise vibration, displacement, or mechanical impulse, depending on the actuator type and control signal.

[0105] The haptic feedback arrangement 5 may, for example, comprise an eccentric rotating mass (ERM) actuator, a linear resonant actuator (LRA), a piezoelectric actuator, or an electromagnetic actuator. The one or more actuators may be mechanically coupled to the control panel 1 so as to transfer movement to the control region 3 when activated. The resilient mounting members 11 may allow the control panel 1 to move relative to the vehicleportion 14 in response to the actuator motion, thereby enabling a perceptible mechanical response in the control region 3.

[0106] The haptic feedback arrangement 5 may be arranged to operate in an activated state and a deactivated state, as described herein, wherein haptic feedback is only output when the haptic feedback arrangement 5 is in the activated state.

[0107] Moreover, as indicated in Fig. 2 and Fig. 3, the vehicle interface system 10 comprises a control arrangement 21. According to the illustrated embodiments, the control arrangement 21 is operably connected to the display 8, the force sensing arrangement 7, and the haptic feedback arrangement 5.

[0108] Fig. 4 schematically illustrates the vehicle interface system 10 illustrated in Fig. 2 and a finger 31 of a user. In Fig. 4, the finger 31 is illustrated as touching one of the plurality of touch-sensitive areas A1-A8, namely the touch-sensitive area A2, fully seen in Fig. 2. Below, simultaneous reference is made to Fig. 1 - Fig. 4, if not indicated otherwise.

[0109] The control arrangement 21 may be configured to detect that the touch-sensitive area A2 is being touched by inputting a signal from the display 8 indicating the presence and location of a touch in that touch-sensitive area A2. In addition, the control arrangement 21 may receive a signal from the force sensing arrangement 7 indicating a magnitude of a touching force associated with the detected touch. According to some embodiments, the force sensing arrangement 7 may comprise a set of spatially distributed force sensors, allowing the control arrangement 21 to additionally or alternatively determine the presence and location of a touch based on signals from the force sensing arrangement 7.

[0110] According to embodiments herein, the control arrangement 21 is configured to set the haptic feedback arrangement 5 in the activated state if only one touch is detected on the control region 3 in one of the plurality of touch-sensitive areas A1-A8 and no other touches are detected on the control region 3 of the control panel 1. Moreover, according to the illustrated embodiments, the control arrangement 21 is configured to set the haptic feedback arrangement 5 in the activated state only if the touching force associated with the detected touch exceeds a threshold. The threshold may also be referred to as a threshold force. For example, the threshold may be set to a force within a predefined range, such as between 1 -8 newtons, or 3 - 5 newtons.In other words, according to some embodiments, the control arrangement 21 is configured to set the haptic feedback arrangement 5 in the activated state if only one touch is detected on the control region 3 in one of the plurality of touch-sensitive areas A1-A8 and the touching force associated with the detected touch exceeds the threshold. The feature that “only one touch is detected on the control region 3” means that no other touches are detected on the control region 3 of the control panel 1. Also, in these embodiments, the control arrangement 21 is configured to maintain the haptic feedback arrangement 5 in the deactivated state if a touching force associated with a detected touch is below a threshold.

[0111] However, in the situation depicted in Fig. 4, the touching force of the finger 31 onto the touch-sensitive area A2 exceeds the threshold. Therefore, the control arrangement 21 sets the haptic feedback arrangement 5 in the activated state. As explained above, the haptic feedback arrangement 5 is configured to output a haptic signal on the control panel 1 upon being set in the activated state. This can be seen by the vibration symbols at the edges of the control panel 1 in Fig. 4. According to the illustrated embodiments, the haptic feedback arrangement 5 is configured to output the haptic signal on the control panel 1 for a short duration of time upon being set in the activated state, and then switch back to the deactivated state. The short duration of time may, for example, range from a fraction of a second up to a few seconds.

[0112] Moreover, according to the illustrated embodiments, the control arrangement 21 is configured to switch the activation state of the vehicle function associated with a touch-sensitive area A2 if only one touch is detected on the control region 3 in that touch-sensitive area A2. Furthermore, according to some embodiments, the control arrangement 21 is configured to switch the activation state of the vehicle function associated with a touch-sensitive area A2 if only one touch is detected on the control region 3 in that touch-sensitive area A2 and the touching force associated with the detected touch exceeds the threshold. In such embodiments, the control arrangement 21 may be configured to maintain activation states of all vehicle functions associated with the plurality of touch-sensitive areas A1-A8, if two or more simultaneous touches are detected on the control region 3 or if a touching force associated with a detected touch is below the threshold.

[0113] The switch of activation state of a vehicle function may, for example, encompass turning a vehicle function on or off, increasing or decreasing a value associated with the vehicle function, or toggling between operational modes. As previously described, the vehicle functions associated with the touch-sensitive areas A1-A8 may include, but are not limited to, interior lighting, cabin temperature settings, fan speed control, window lifting, mirroradjustment, seat heating or ventilation, media volume or playback control, and, in the case of trucks, operations such as lifting a tag axle, adjusting chassis height, engaging a differential lock, or initiating a cargo unloading operation. In the case of buses, the vehicle functions may for example further include controlling interior lighting for passengers, operating a kneeling function to lower an entry step into the vehicle, switching destination signs, adjusting climate settings for the passenger compartment, or managing the opening and closing of passenger doors. The control arrangement 21 may thus be configured to interpret a valid single-touch input in a given touch-sensitive area A1-A8 as an instruction to change the operational state of the vehicle function associated with that touch-sensitive area A1-A8.

[0114] According to the illustrated embodiments, the control arrangement 21 of the vehicle interface system 10 is operably connected to a control system 22 of the vehicle 2. The control system 22 may be configured to manage and execute various vehicle functions, such as those described above. Upon detecting a valid single-touch input in one of the touch-sensitive areas A1-A8, the control arrangement 21 may be configured to send an instruction signal to the control system 22 to switch the activation state of the vehicle function associated with that touch-sensitive area A1-A8. The instruction signal may specify the relevant vehicle function and define the desired change of operational state, such as activating, deactivating, increasing, decreasing, or toggling a mode.

[0115] The control system 22 may be configured to carry out the instructed operation, for example by actuating an actuator, adjusting a parameter value, or controlling a corresponding electronic or electromechanical subsystem of the vehicle 2. The operable connection between the control arrangement 21 and the control system 22 may be implemented via a wired or wireless communication interface, such as a vehicle bus system or dedicated signal lines.

[0116] Fig. 5 illustrates the vehicle interface system 10 illustrated in Fig. 4 in which the finger has been removed. As mentioned, according to the illustrated embodiments, the haptic feedback arrangement 5 is configured to output the haptic signal on the control panel 1 for a short duration of time upon being set in the activated state, and then switch back to the deactivated state. In Fig. 5, the haptic feedback arrangement 5 has switched back to the deactivated state. Below, simultaneous reference is made to Fig. 1 - Fig. 5, if not indicated otherwise.

[0117] According to the illustrated embodiments, the control arrangement 21 is configured to, in response to switching an activation state of a vehicle function, output a visual confirmation inthe touch-sensitive area A1-A8 associated with the activated vehicle function. Alternatively, or additionally, the control arrangement 21 may be configured to, in response to setting the haptic feedback arrangement 5 in the activated state, output a visual confirmation in the touch-sensitive area A1-A8 associated with the activated vehicle function.

[0118] According to the illustrated embodiments, the control arrangement 21 is configured to output the visual confirmation by illuminating a portion i2 of the touch-sensitive area A2 in which the activating touch was detected. That is, as is best seen in Fig. 2, each touch-sensitive area A1-A8 comprises a portion i1-i8 marked in dotted lines. The portions i1-i8 are illustrated in dotted lines in Fig. 2 because they are not illuminated in Fig. 2. However, as seen in Fig. 5, the portion i2 of the touch-sensitive area A2 is illuminated, as is indicated by the solid black fill. In the illustrated example, the portion i2 is filled with black colour to indicate that a valid single-touch input has been detected in the touch-sensitive area A2. The illumination of the portion i2 serves as a visual confirmation that a valid input has been registered in that touch-sensitive area A2.

[0119] Furthermore, according to the illustrated embodiments, the control arrangement 21 is configured to output the visual confirmation by displaying a symbol s2 in the touch-sensitive area A2 in which the activating touch was detected. That is, as is best seen in Fig. 2, each touch-sensitive area A1-A8 comprises a symbol s1-s8 shown in dotted lines. The symbols s1-s8 are illustrated in dotted lines in Fig. 2 because they are not displayed in Fig. 2.

[0120] However, as seen in Fig. 5, the symbol s2 of the touch-sensitive area A2 is displayed, as is indicated by the solid black rendering. In the illustrated example, the symbol s2 is displayed to indicate that a valid single-touch input has been detected in the touch-sensitive area A2. The display of the symbol s2 thereby serves as a visual confirmation that a valid input has been registered in that touch-sensitive area A2.

[0121] Moreover, as understood from the above, the illumination of the portion i2 and the display of the symbol s2 may also indicate that the activation state of the vehicle function associated with the touch-sensitive area A2 has been switched. In this manner, the visual confirmation may not only confirm that a valid single-touch input has been detected in the touch-sensitive area A2, but also provide an indication that an associated vehicle function has been affected in response to the input.

[0122] Furthermore, the visual confirmation may also include the removal of a symbol and / or the deactivation of an illuminated portion. For example, if the associated vehicle function is switched, for example deactivated, in response to a user input, the control arrangement 21may cause the symbol s2 to disappear from the touch-sensitive area A2 and may cause the illumination of the portion i2 to be turned off. The disappearance of a symbol and / or the extinguishing of a lighted portion may serve as a visual confirmation that a function has been deactivated.

[0123] In some embodiments, the visual confirmation may also involve altering the appearance of a displayed symbol. For example, the control arrangement 21 may cause a symbol s1-s8 to change shape, size, brightness, or pattern in response to input, such as when adjusting a fan speed between a number of discrete steps. This type of variation may visually reflect the current level or status of the associated function and thereby enhance user feedback.

[0124] Furthermore, as indicated in Fig. 1, Fig. 2, Fig. 4, and Fig. 5, according to the illustrated embodiments, the vehicle interface system 10 further comprises an audio unit 9. The audio unit 9 is controllable to emit audio signals inside the occupant compartment 55 of the vehicle 2. In these embodiments, the control arrangement 21 is configured to output an audio signal via the audio unit 9 in response to switching an activation state of a vehicle function. As an alternative, or in addition, the control arrangement 21 may be configured to output an audio signal via the audio unit 9 in response to setting the haptic feedback arrangement 5 in the activated state. In this manner, the vehicle interface system 10 can provide an additional form of feedback confirming that a valid input has been received and acted upon. The audio signal may complement the haptic and visual feedback, helping the user to recognise that the input has been registered. This can support clearer interaction and reduce uncertainty during vehicle operation.

[0125] Fig. 6 illustrates the vehicle interface system 10 illustrated in Fig. 2 in which two fingers 31, 32 of a user is touching the control region 3 of the control panel 1. In more detail, in Fig. 6, a first finger 31 is illustrated as touching the touch-sensitive area A2, fully seen in Fig. 2, and a second finger 32 is illustrated as touching the touch-sensitive area A6, also fully seen in Fig.

[0126] 2. Below, simultaneous reference is made to Fig. 1 - Fig. 6, if not indicated otherwise.

[0127] According to embodiments herein, the control arrangement 21 is configured to maintain the haptic feedback arrangement 5 in the deactivated state if two or more simultaneous touches are detected on the control region 3. Since two fingers 31, 32 are touching the control region 3 in a respective touch-sensitive area A2, A6 in the situation depicted in Fig. 6, the control arrangement 21 maintains the haptic feedback arrangement 5 in the deactivated state, i.e., do not set the haptic feedback arrangement 5 in the activated state. In this manner, the vehicle interface system 10 can prevent the output of haptic feedback in response topotentially ambiguous or unintended multi-touch input. By maintaining the haptic feedback arrangement 5 in the deactivated state when two or more simultaneous touches are detected, the control arrangement 21 ensures that haptic feedback is only provided in response to clear and deliberate single-touch input on the control region 3. This can reduce the risk of user confusion and unintended interaction with the vehicle interface system 10, particularly during vehicle operation.

[0128] Moreover, in these embodiments, the control arrangement 21 is configured to maintain activation states of all vehicle functions associated with the plurality of touch-sensitive areas A1-A8 if two or more simultaneous touches are detected on the control region 3. In this manner, the control arrangement 21 can prevent unintentional switching of activation states due to multi-touch input, which may otherwise occur if two or more touch-sensitive areas A1-A8 are touched at the same time. By maintaining the activation states of all associated vehicle functions in response to simultaneous touches, the vehicle interface system 10 ensures that only deliberate and unambiguous single-touch input on the control region 3 can lead to changes in the operational status of the vehicle functions. This can help reduce operational errors and support safer and more predictable interaction with the vehicle interface system 10.

[0129] As referred to herein, “simultaneous touches” may also include situations in which two or more touches occur on the control region 3 within a short time interval from one another. For example, a first finger 31 may be placed on the control region 3 shortly before a second finger 32, such that both touches are considered simultaneous for the purpose of input detection. The short time interval may, for example, be in the range of 20 to 300 milliseconds. This allows the control arrangement 21 to account for slight temporal offsets between detected touches while still treating the input as two or more simultaneous touches. As a result, the control arrangement 21 can maintain the haptic feedback arrangement 5 in the deactivated state and maintain activation states of all vehicle functions associated with the touch-sensitive areas A1-A8, thereby preventing any switching of activation states or output of haptic feedback in response to such input on the control region 3.

[0130] Fig. 7 schematically illustrates a method 100 of controlling operation of a vehicle interface system. The vehicle interface system may be a vehicle interface system 10 according to the embodiments illustrated in Fig. 1 - Fig. 6. Therefore, below, simultaneous reference is made to Fig. 1 - Fig. 7, if not indicated otherwise.The method 100 is a method of controlling operation of a vehicle interface system 10, wherein the method 100 is performed by a control arrangement 21. The vehicle interface system 10 comprises a control panel 1. The control panel 1 comprises a control region 3 and a haptic feedback arrangement 5. The haptic feedback arrangement 5 is operable in an activated state and a deactivated state. The control region 3 comprises a plurality of touch-sensitive areas A1-A8 at least partially separated by physical structures r2, r3. The method 100 comprises the steps of, when the haptic feedback arrangement 5 is in the deactivated state:

[0131] - maintaining 110 the haptic feedback arrangement 5 in the deactivated state if two or more simultaneous touches are detected on the control region 3, and

[0132] - setting 120 the haptic feedback arrangement 5 in the activated state if only one touch is detected on the control region 3 in one of the plurality of touch-sensitive areas A1-A8.

[0133] As indicated in Fig. 7, the method 100 may comprise, prior to the step of maintaining 110: detecting 101 two or more simultaneous touches on the control region 3, and maintaining 110 the haptic feedback arrangement 5 in the deactivated state in response to detecting 101 two or more simultaneous touches on the control region 3.

[0134] Moreover, as indicated in Fig. 7, the method 100 may comprise, prior to the step of setting 120:

[0135] detecting 103 only one touch on the control region 3 in one of the plurality of touch- sensitive areas A1-A8, and

[0136] setting 120 the haptic feedback arrangement 5 in the activated state in response to detecting 103 only one touch on the control region 3 in one of the plurality of touch- sensitive areas A1-A8.

[0137] The steps of detecting 101 and detecting 103, as referred to herein, may be performed based on input from a display 8 and / or a force sensing arrangement 7 of the vehicle interface system 10. For example, the display 8 may be configured to detect the presence and location of one or more touch inputs on the control region 3, thereby enabling the control arrangement 21 to determine whether one or more simultaneous touches are present and to identify the touched touch-sensitive area A1-A8. In addition, the force sensing arrangement 7 may be configured to detect the magnitude and location of a touching force applied to the control region 3. Accordingly, the control arrangement 21 may receive input from the display 8 and the force sensing arrangement 7 to determine whether only one touch or two or more simultaneous touches are present on the control region 3 and to initiate the corresponding steps of the method 100.According to embodiments herein, the haptic feedback arrangement 5 is configured to output a haptic signal on the control panel 1 when in the activated state, and to not output any haptic signal when in the deactivated state. In other words, the haptic feedback arrangement 5 is configured to output a haptic signal on the control panel 1 upon being set in the activated state.

[0138] Therefore, the step of setting 120 the haptic feedback arrangement 5 in the activated state, as referred to herein, may also be referred to as a step of outputting a haptic signal on the control panel 1 using the haptic feedback arrangement 5. Likewise, the step of maintaining 110 the haptic feedback arrangement 5 in the deactivated state, as referred to herein, may also be referred to as a step of refraining from outputting a haptic signal on the control panel 1 using the haptic feedback arrangement 5.

[0139] According to some embodiments, the control panel 1 comprises a force sensing arrangement 7 configured to detect a touching force applied to the control region 3. In these embodiments, the method 100 may comprise:

[0140] - maintaining 112 the haptic feedback arrangement 5 in the deactivated state if a touching force associated with a detected touch is below a threshold, and

[0141] - performing the step of setting 120 the haptic feedback arrangement 5 in the activated state only if the touching force associated with the detected touch exceeds the threshold.

[0142] In other words, the method 100 may comprise the step of:

[0143] maintaining 110, 112 the haptic feedback arrangement 5 in the deactivated state if two or more simultaneous touches are detected on the control region 3 or if a touching force associated with a detected touch is below a threshold.

[0144] Likewise, the method 100 may comprises the step of:

[0145] setting 120 the haptic feedback arrangement 5 in the activated state if only one touch is detected on the control region 3 in one of the plurality of touch-sensitive areas A1-A8 and the touching force associated with the detected touch exceeds the threshold.

[0146] According to some embodiments, each of the plurality of touch-sensitive areas A1-A8 is associated with a vehicle function. In these embodiments, the method 100 may comprise: - maintaining 114 activation states of all vehicle functions associated with the plurality of touch-sensitive areas A1-A8 if two or more simultaneous touches are detected on the control region 3, andswitching 130 the activation state of the vehicle function associated with a touch- sensitive area A1-A8 if only one touch is detected on the control region 3 in that touch- sensitive area A1-A8.

[0147] The step of maintaining 114 activation states, as referred to herein, means that none of the vehicle functions associated with the touch-sensitive areas A1-A8 are activated or deactivated in response to detecting two or more simultaneous touches on the control region 3. In other words, the activation states of the vehicle functions remain unchanged in this situation, thereby avoiding unintentional or ambiguous changes caused by multi-touch input.

[0148] The step of switching 130, as referred to herein, means that the activation state of the specific vehicle function associated with the touched touch-sensitive area A1-A8 is changed in response to detecting only one touch on the control region 3 in that touch-sensitive area A1-A8. The switch of activation state may, for example, comprise turning the vehicle function on or off, increasing or decreasing a value, or toggling between predefined operational modes. Thereby, the method 100 may enable intentional and unambiguous user input to control respective vehicle functions via the plurality of touch-sensitive areas A1-A8.

[0149] Moreover, according to some embodiments, the method 100 comprises, in response to setting 120 the haptic feedback arrangement 5 in the activated state and / or in response to switching 130 an activation state of a vehicle function:

[0150] - outputting 132 a visual confirmation in the touch-sensitive area A1-A8 associated with the activated vehicle function.

[0151] According to some embodiments, the step of outputting 132 comprises:

[0152] - illuminating 134 a portion i1-i8 of the touch-sensitive area A1-A8 in which the activating touch was detected.

[0153] According to some embodiments, the step of outputting 132 comprises:

[0154] - displaying 136 a symbol s1-s8 in the touch-sensitive area A1-A8 in which the activating touch was detected.

[0155] The vehicle interface system 10 may further comprise an audio unit 9 controllable to emit audio signals. In such embodiments, the method 100 may comprise:

[0156] - outputting 138 an audio signal via the audio unit 9 in response to setting 120 the haptic feedback arrangement 5 in the activated state and / or in response to switching 130 an activation state of a vehicle function.It will be appreciated that the various embodiments described for the method 100 are all combinable with the control arrangement 21 as described herein. That is, the control arrangement 21 may be configured to perform any one of the method steps 101, 103, 110, 112, 114, 120, 130, 132, 134, 136, and 138 of the method 100.

[0157] Fig. 8 illustrates a computer-readable medium 200 comprising instructions which, when executed by a computer, cause the computer to carry out the method 100 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. According to some embodiments, the computer-readable medium 200 comprises a computer program comprising instructions which, when the program is executed by a computer, cause the computer to carry out the method 100 according to some embodiments. The computer may be comprised in the control arrangement 21.

[0158] One skilled in the art will appreciate that the method 100 of controlling operation of a vehicle interface system 10 may be implemented by programmed instructions. These programmed instructions are typically constituted by a computer program, which, when it is executed in the control arrangement 21 , ensures that the control arrangement 21 carries out the desired control, such as the method steps 101, 103, 110, 112, 114, 120, 130, 132, 134, 136, and 138 described herein. The computer program is usually part of a computer program product which comprises a suitable digital storage medium on which the computer program is stored, such as the computer-readable medium 200 illustrated in Fig. 8. In other words, the computer program product may be a computer readable medium 200 and the computer program may be stored in the computer readable medium 200.

[0159] The control arrangement 21 may comprise a computer which may take the form of substantially any suitable type of hardware or hardware / firmware device implemented using processing circuity such as, but not limited to, a processor, Central Processing Unit (CPU), a controller, an arithmetic logic unit (ALU), a digital signal processor, an Application Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC), a circuit for digital signal processing (digital signal processor, DSP), a microcomputer, a field programmable gate array (FPGA), a System-on-Chip (SoC), a programmable logic unit, a microprocessor, or any other device capable of electronically performing operations in a defined manner, or other processing logic that may interpret and execute instructions. The herein utilised expression “computer” may represent a processing circuitry comprising a plurality of processing circuits, such as, e.g., any, some or all of the ones mentioned above.The control arrangement 21 may further comprise a memory unit, wherein the computer may be connected to the memory unit, which may provide the computer with, for example, stored program code and / or stored data which the computer may need to enable it to do calculations. The computer may also be adapted to store partial or final results of calculations in the memory unit. The memory unit may comprise a physical device utilised to store data or programs, i.e. , sequences of instructions, on a temporary or permanent basis. According to some embodiments, the memory unit may comprise integrated circuits comprising silicon-based transistors. The memory unit may comprise e.g. a memory card, a flash memory, a USB memory, a hard disc, or another similar volatile or non-volatile storage unit for storing data such as e.g. ROM (Read-Only Memory), PROM (Programmable Read-Only Memory), EPROM (Erasable PROM), EEPROM (Electrically Erasable PROM), etc. in different embodiments.

[0160] The control arrangement 21 is connected to components of the vehicle 2 and the vehicle interface system 10 for receiving and / or sending input and output signals. These input and output signals may comprise waveforms, pulses, or other attributes which the input signal receiving devices can detect as information and which can be converted to signals processable by the control arrangement 21. These signals may then be supplied to the computer. One or more output signal sending devices may be arranged to convert calculation results from the computer to output signals for conveying to other parts of the vehicle's control system and / or the component or components for which the signals are intended. Each of the connections to the respective components of the vehicle 2 for receiving and sending input and output signals may take the form of one or more from among a cable, a data bus, e.g. a CAN (controller area network) bus, a MOST (media orientated systems transport) bus or some other bus configuration, or a wireless connection.

[0161] In the embodiments illustrated, the vehicle interface system 10 of the vehicle 2 comprises a control arrangement 21 but might alternatively be implemented wholly or partly in two or more control arrangements, two or more control arrangements, or two or more control units.

[0162] Control systems in modern vehicles generally comprise a communication bus system consisting of one or more communication buses for connecting a number of electronic control units (ECUs), or controllers, to various components on board the vehicle. Such a control system may comprise a large number of control units and taking care of a specific function may be shared between two or more of them. Vehicles and engines of the type here concerned are therefore often provided with significantly more control arrangements than depicted in Fig. 2, and Fig. 4 - Fig. 6, as one skilled in the art will surely appreciate.The computer-readable medium 200 may be provided for instance in the form of a data carrier carrying computer program code for performing at least some of the method steps 101, 103, 110, 112, 114, 120, 130, 132, 134, 136, and 138 according to some embodiments of the method 100 when being loaded into one or more computers of the control arrangement 21. The data carrier may be, e.g. a CD ROM disc, as is illustrated in Fig. 8, ora ROM (read-only memory), a PROM (programable read-only memory), an EPROM (erasable PROM), a flash memory, an EEPROM (electrically erasable PROM), a hard disc, a memory stick, an optical storage device, a magnetic storage device or any other appropriate medium such as a disk or tape that may hold machine readable data in a non-transitory manner. Accordingly, in some embodiments, the computer-readable medium 200 may be a non-transitory computer-readable medium, such as a tangible electronic, magnetic, optical, infrared, electromagnetic, and / or semiconductor system, apparatus, and / or device. The computer-readable medium 200 may furthermore be provided as computer program code on a server and may be downloaded to the control arrangement 21 remotely, e.g., over an Internet or an intranet connection, or via other wired or wireless communication systems.

[0163] It is to be understood that the foregoing is illustrative of various example embodiments and that the invention is defined only by the appended independent claims. A person skilled in the art will realize that the example embodiments may be modified, and that different features of the example embodiments may be combined to create embodiments other than those described herein, without departing from the scope of the present invention, as defined by the appended independent claims.

[0164] As used herein, the term "comprising" or "comprises" is open-ended, and includes one or more stated features, elements, steps, components, or functions but does not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, elements, steps, components, functions, or groups thereof.

Claims

CLAIMS1. A method (100) of controlling operation of a vehicle interface system (10), wherein the method (100) is performed by a control arrangement (21), and wherein the vehicle interface system (10) comprises a control panel (1), the control panel (1) comprising a control region (3) and a haptic feedback arrangement (5), wherein the haptic feedback arrangement (5) is operable in an activated state and a deactivated state, and wherein the control region (3) comprises a plurality of touch-sensitive areas (A1-A8) at least partially separated by physical structures (r2, r3), wherein the method (100) comprises the steps of:maintaining (110) the haptic feedback arrangement (5) in the deactivated state if two or more simultaneous touches are detected on the control region (3), and setting (120) the haptic feedback arrangement (5) in the activated state if only one touch is detected on the control region (3) in one of the plurality of touch-sensitive areas (A1-A8).

2. The method (100) according to claim 1, wherein the control panel (1) comprises a force sensing arrangement (7) configured to detect a touching force applied to the control region (3), the method (100) comprising:maintaining (112) the haptic feedback arrangement (5) in the deactivated state if a touching force associated with a detected touch is below a threshold, and performing the step of setting (120) the haptic feedback arrangement (5) in the activated state only if the touching force associated with the detected touch exceeds the threshold.

3. The method (100) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein each of the plurality of touch- sensitive areas (A1-A8) is associated with a vehicle function, the method (100) comprising:maintaining (114) activation states of all vehicle functions associated with the plurality of touch-sensitive areas (A1-A8) if two or more simultaneous touches are detected on the control region (3), andswitching (130) the activation state of the vehicle function associated with a touch- sensitive area (A1-A8) if only one touch is detected on the control region (3) in that touch-sensitive area (A1-A8).

4. The method (100) according to claim 3, wherein the method (100) comprises, in response to setting (120) the haptic feedback arrangement (5) in the activated state and / or in response to switching (130) an activation state of a vehicle function:outputting (132) a visual confirmation in the touch-sensitive area (A1-A8) associated with the activated vehicle function.

5. The method (100) according to claim 4, wherein the step of outputting (132) comprises:illuminating (134) a portion (i1-i8) of the touch-sensitive area (A1-A8) in which the activating touch was detected.

6. The method (100) according to claim 4 or 5, wherein the step of outputting (132) comprises:displaying (136) a symbol (s1-s8) in the touch-sensitive area (A1-A8) in which the activating touch was detected.

7. The method (100) according to any one of the claims 3 - 6, wherein the vehicle interface system (10) further comprises an audio unit (9) controllable to emit audio signals, and wherein the method (100) comprises:outputting (138) an audio signal via the audio unit (9) in response to setting (120) the haptic feedback arrangement (5) in the activated state and / or in response to switching (130) an activation state of a vehicle function.

8. A computer program comprising instructions which, when the program is executed by a control arrangement (21) of a vehicle interface system (10), cause the control arrangement (21) to carry out the method (100) according to any one of the claims 1 - 7.

9. A computer-readable medium (200) comprising instructions which, when executed by a control arrangement (21) of a vehicle interface system (10), cause the control arrangement (21) to carry out the method (100) according to any one of the claims 1 - 7.

10. A control arrangement (21) configured to control operation of a vehicle interface system (10), wherein the vehicle interface system (10) comprises a control panel (1), the control panel (1) comprising a control region (3) and a haptic feedback arrangement (5), wherein the haptic feedback arrangement (5) is operable in an activated state and a deactivated state, and wherein the control region (3) comprises a plurality of touch-sensitive areas (A1-A8) at least partially separated by physical structures (r2, r3), wherein the control arrangement (21) is configured to:maintain the haptic feedback arrangement (5) in the deactivated state if two or more simultaneous touches are detected on the control region (3), andset the haptic feedback arrangement (5) in the activated state if only one touch is detected on the control region (3) in one of the plurality of touch-sensitive areas (A1- A8).

11. The control arrangement (21) according to claim 10, wherein the control panel (1) comprises a force sensing arrangement (7) configured to detect a touching force applied to the control region (3), and wherein the control arrangement (21) is configured to: maintain the haptic feedback arrangement (5) in the deactivated state if a touching force associated with a detected touch is below a threshold, andset the haptic feedback arrangement (5) in the activated state only if the touching force associated with the detected touch exceeds the threshold.

12. A vehicle interface system (10) comprising a control panel (1), wherein the control panel (1) comprises a control region (3) and a haptic feedback arrangement (5), the haptic feedback arrangement (5) being operable in an activated state and a deactivated state, wherein the control region (3) comprises a plurality of touch-sensitive areas (A1-A8) at least partially separated by physical structures (r2, r3), and wherein the vehicle interface system (10) comprises a control arrangement (21) according to claim 10 or 11.

13. The vehicle interface system (10) according to claim 12, wherein the physical structures (r2, r3) comprise one or more of a protrusion, a recess, a ridge, a groove, or an edge between inclined or stepped surfaces.

14. The vehicle interface system (10) according to claim 12 or 13, wherein each touch- sensitive area (A1-A8) comprises a display section controllable to display different types of symbols (s1-s8).

15. A vehicle (2) comprising a vehicle interface system (10) according to any one of the claims 12 - 14.

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