Vehicle Drive Coordination for Secondary Function Priority Control

The patent introduces a functional coordination unit as an intermediary between secondary functions and the operating mode coordination unit. This coordinator receives execution requirements from multiple secondary functions, determines their priority and compatibility, and generates a single coordinated operating mode request. This mediator structure reduces software complexity by centralizing the coordination logic while maintaining the system's ability to respond to diverse functional demands.

The patent segments the coordination task by separating the generation of operating mode requests from the evaluation of individual secondary function requirements. The functional coordination unit divides the complex coordination problem into manageable sub-tasks: collecting requirements from multiple functions, determining their compatibility, establishing priority sequences, and generating coordinated requests. This segmentation reduces overall software complexity.

The patent implements periodic action by establishing a temporal sequence for executing secondary functions through the functional coordination unit. When multiple secondary functions are requested, the coordinator determines a priority sequence and schedules their execution in temporal order rather than simultaneous execution. This periodic approach ensures that critical functions complete before less critical ones start, preventing interference and premature termination while still achieving multiple task execution.

The functional coordination unit performs preliminary action by determining the priority sequence and compatibility of secondary functions before execution begins. The coordinator evaluates which functions can be executed simultaneously and which require sequential execution, establishing the execution plan in advance. This preliminary coordination prevents conflicts during execution, ensuring reliable completion of critical functions.