Vehicle Accessory Integration via GUI-Based Configuration Rules
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for integrating accessories with vehicles require complex technical modifications, which can invalidate warranties and are beyond the expertise of many users, especially in customizing general-purpose vehicles into special-purpose vehicles.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that utilize a graphical user interface to allow users to specify high-level accessory-related rules, which are then translated into a lower-level representation readable by an accessory interface unit, enabling the integration of accessories with vehicles without the need for technical modifications.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If complex technical modifications are performed to integrate accessories with vehicles, then the functionality and customization capability are improved, but the device complexity and difficulty of operation increase, and warranties may be invalidated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary configuration system that includes a graphical user interface, a configuration file generator, and a vehicle system interface. This intermediary layer translates user-friendly high-level customization requirements into low-level technical configurations, enabling accessory integration without requiring users to perform complex technical modifications directly to the vehicle system.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical configuration methods (physical wiring, manual system integration) with a software-based configuration system. The configuration is performed through graphical user interface interactions that generate configuration files, which are then automatically processed by the vehicle system, eliminating the need for complex physical modifications and reducing technical barriers.
2Adaptability or versatility
If complex technical modifications are performed to integrate accessories, then customization capability is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates as it requires specialized expertise
Solution Approach 1:
The configuration system acts as an intermediary that shields users from technical complexity. The graphical user interface presents simplified, domain-specific terminology and workflows that match user mental models, while the underlying system handles the complex translation and integration tasks automatically.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses configuration files as an intermediate representation that copies and abstracts the essential customization parameters. Users interact with simplified configuration templates and profiles that capture the necessary customization information without exposing the underlying system complexity, enabling non-experts to perform customization.
3Ease of operation
If hardware controls are added to the vehicle console for accessory control, then control capability is improved, but device complexity and installation complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces physical hardware controls (mechanical switches, dials, buttons) with software-based controls displayed on the existing vehicle touchscreen interface. The configuration system generates virtual control elements that are rendered on the display, allowing accessory control through software interactions rather than physical hardware modifications.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent leverages the existing touchscreen display and processing capabilities of the vehicle's infotainment system to provide accessory control functions. The same hardware infrastructure used for media playback and navigation is also utilized for accessory control, eliminating the need for dedicated hardware controls and reducing overall system complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
The disclosure relates to simplifying the integration of a peripheral with a vehicle. The complexity of modern vehicle electronics means that integration of a peripheral with a vehicle requires a reconfiguration of the vehicle electronics in order for the resultant upfitted vehicle to function as desired by the user. This restricts the set of users and enterprises which are able to successfully integrate a new peripheral with a vehicle. To make the task more approachable, a software application is described which presents a user with a graphical user interface enabling them to specify, at a high-level, rules of behavior for the upfitted vehicle. From the user's inputs via the graphical user interface, the application creates configuration data to be applied to the vehicle electronics in order to produce the desired behavior in the upfitted vehicle.