Cockpit Controller Connectivity for Head-Unit Swaps and Expansion
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Solution Overview
Problem
The challenge of replacing a head-unit in a vehicle infotainment system often requires extensive and costly modifications due to the lack of standardization in interfaces, leading to the loss of user preferences and the need for replacing the entire infotainment system, while the limited space constraints hinder the integration of additional subsystems.
Innovation Solution
A scalable connectivity architecture for the cockpit domain controller that allows seamless exchange of head-units by transferring user settings and authenticating new units, while accommodating additional subsystems through modular and flexible connectivity without increasing the controller's footprint.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the infotainment system uses multiple BUS systems and connections to couple components to the cockpit domain controller, then the system functionality and control capabilities are improved, but the circuit board space and housing size requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple BUS systems (CAN, Ethernet, LIN) and their respective connectors into a single integrated connector interface. This merging of multiple connection functions into one unified interface reduces the overall circuit board space required while maintaining support for all necessary communication protocols and subsystems.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector interface is designed with multi-functionality to handle various communication protocols (CAN, Ethernet, LIN) and power transmission through a single universal interface. This universal connector can adapt to different subsystems and communication requirements without requiring separate dedicated connectors for each function.
2Productivity
If the cockpit domain controller integrates more functional domains and communication capabilities, then the control architecture complexity and communication performance are improved, but the housing size and packaging space constraints are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a nested connector design where multiple communication channels and connection types are nested within a single connector housing. The connector contains nested contact arrays that can simultaneously establish multiple communication pathways (CAN, Ethernet, LIN) through a compact integrated structure, reducing the overall housing volume required.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector design transitions from a two-dimensional arrangement of separate connectors on the circuit board to a three-dimensional integrated structure. By stacking contact arrays and utilizing vertical space within the connector housing, the design achieves high communication capacity without proportionally increasing the horizontal footprint or overall housing volume.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the system requires a greater number of ports for communicative connectors to satisfy complexity targets, then the adaptability to different subsystems is improved, but the circuit board space available for integration is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is segmented into multiple independent contact arrays, each capable of handling different communication protocols (CAN, Ethernet, LIN). This segmentation allows the single connector to provide adaptability to multiple subsystems while maintaining a compact form factor that conserves circuit board space compared to using separate connectors for each protocol.
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments are disclosed for a system for coupling with at least one vehicle cable for communication with components of an infotainment system. In one example, the system includes a housing and a domain controller with hardware components enclosed within the housing. The system may further include a first connector interface arranged at a first side of the housing, the first connector interface including all connections for the domain controller.