Autonomous Vehicle Content Playback Without Direct Device Pairing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for playing content in autonomous vehicles require direct communication links and pairing processes, which are time-consuming and may not function without a WiFi network, raising security concerns and complicating user experience.
Innovation Solution
A method that involves a computing system receiving a request to transport a user, determining if a content feature is enabled, and sending a device identifier to an autonomous vehicle to enable content playback without direct communication between the user's device and the vehicle, using a content-enabling computing system to relay content and manage device IDs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If direct communication links and pairing processes are used between user devices and autonomous vehicles, then content playback is enabled, but the process becomes time-consuming and complex
Solution Approach 1:
A central computing system acts as an intermediary between the user's client device and the autonomous vehicle. The system receives content from the client device, processes it, and transmits it to the vehicle's computing device. This mediator eliminates the need for direct pairing between user device and vehicle, streamlining the content playback setup process.
2Ease of operation
If direct communication links are established between user devices and autonomous vehicles, then content playback is enabled, but security concerns increase
Solution Approach 1:
The central computing system serves as a secure intermediary that mediates all communication between the client device and autonomous vehicle. It authenticates devices, manages device identifiers, and controls content transmission. This intermediary architecture reduces security risks by centralizing authentication and access control, preventing direct unsecured connections between user devices and vehicles.
3Adaptability or versatility
If direct communication without WiFi network is used, then content playback may be enabled, but reliability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The central computing system acts as a reliable intermediary that manages content transmission independently of direct device-vehicle connections. It receives content from client devices, processes it, and delivers it to vehicles through a network infrastructure. This mediator ensures reliable content delivery by managing communication protocols and error handling, maintaining functionality across different network conditions.
4Ease of operation
If device pairing processes are implemented, then content playback is enabled, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The central computing system consolidates pairing and authentication logic, eliminating the need for complex direct pairing mechanisms between client devices and vehicles. The intermediary manages device identifiers, authenticates connections, and coordinates content transmission. This centralization simplifies the user experience while reducing the complexity burden from individual devices.
Data Source
AI summary
Aspects of the disclosure relate to enabling playing of content at an autonomous vehicle. For example, a request to transport a user on a trip may be received. The autonomous vehicle may be assigned to the trip. Whether the user has enabled a content feature may be determined. In response to determining that the user has enabled the content feature a request for a device identifier is sent to the autonomous vehicle. The device identifier generated at the autonomous vehicle is received. The received device identifier may be sent to a content-enabling computing system including one or more processors in order to enable the user to play content from the client computing device at the autonomous vehicle during the trip.