Dynamic Vehicle System Functionality Control via Communication Link

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing vehicle systems, such as infotainment systems, face challenges in dynamically controlling the availability and scope of functionalities based on the operating state of the vehicle, leading to static usability settings that do not adapt to changing legal requirements or driving conditions, causing distractions and inefficiencies.

Innovation Solution

A method that uses control parameters received via a communication link to dynamically control the availability and scope of vehicle system functionalities, allowing differentiation between various operating states, enabling adaptive functionality based on the vehicle's state without requiring software updates in the vehicle.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If Internet functionalities are permanently enabled or disabled in the vehicle software, then the functionality availability is fixed and simple to implement, but the system cannot adapt to changing legal requirements or driving conditions

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadaptability to operating stateVSAvoidcontrol mechanism complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic control of functionality availability by receiving control parameters via communication link that indicate whether the vehicle is in motion or stationary. The system dynamically enables or disables functionalities based on these parameters, transitioning from static software configuration to dynamic operational control based on real-time vehicle state

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces an intermediary control mechanism where control parameters are transmitted via communication link between an external source and the vehicle system. This intermediary layer enables flexible control of functionality availability without modifying the vehicle software itself, allowing external authorities to manage system behavior

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Ease of operation

If all Internet functionalities are available while driving, then the driver has full access to information, but the driver may be distracted from the driving task

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedriver access to informationVSAvoiddriver distraction
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies local quality by differentiating functionality availability based on specific operating conditions. When the vehicle is in motion, only certain functionalities are permitted while others are restricted. When stationary, full access is granted. This localized control of access rights based on vehicle state reduces distraction during driving while maintaining full functionality when parked

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

3Reliability

If the vehicle software is updated to comply with new legal requirements, then compliance is achieved, but the update process is time-consuming and requires software modification

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecompliance with legal requirementsVSAvoidsoftware update time
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements preliminary action by pre-configuring the vehicle system with the capability to receive and implement control parameters via communication link. Rather than requiring software updates when legal requirements change, the system is prepared in advance to accept external control instructions, enabling immediate compliance through parameter transmission without modification time

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The communication link serving as an intermediary allows external authorities to transmit control parameters directly to the vehicle system. This intermediary mechanism enables rapid dissemination of legal requirement changes without the time-consuming process of software development, testing, and deployment cycles

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentEP2402202B1Method for operating a vehicle system of a motor vehicle comprising at least one functionality providing information to a driver and/or receiving information from a driver
Publication Date: 2017.06.14 AUDI AG
  • EP2402202B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP2402202B1 patent drawingFigure 3~4

AI summary

Method for operating a vehicle system (2) of a motor vehicle (1) having a functionality that outputs information to a driver and/or receives information from a driver, wherein at least one control parameter relating to the availability and/or scope of the functionality during a journey and relating to the operating state of the motor vehicle (1) is received via a communication link (9) and taken into account when controlling the vehicle system (2).