Vehicle Control Software Extension for Add-On In-Vehicle Functions

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Solution Overview

Problem

The existing in-vehicle unit systems face difficulties in extending functionality, such as adding new functions or combining functions of multiple modules, which limits their versatility and adaptability.

Innovation Solution

A vehicle control system comprising a terminal with a storage unit for additional function information generated by software and a communication unit to output this information, and a vehicle control device that communicates with the terminal to add new functions to electronic devices, allowing for easy extension of functionality without the need for physical device installations.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If optional modules are detachably fitted to the center module, then the in-vehicle unit can be configured with predetermined functions, but the functionality cannot be extended or new functions added after assembly

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefunctionality extensionVSAvoidsystem structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies dynamics by enabling the in-vehicle unit to transition from a static, pre-assembled configuration to a dynamic state where functions can be added or modified after assembly. The control unit receives addition function information from an external terminal and executes software to add new functions to existing modules or create new composite functions, allowing the system to adapt and evolve beyond its initial configuration without physical reassembly.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the functional parameters of the in-vehicle unit by introducing addition function information that modifies the operational capabilities of existing modules. Through software execution, the control unit alters the functional state of modules, enabling them to perform new functions or combine functions in new ways, thereby extending functionality without changing the physical structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Adaptability or versatility

If physical electronic devices are installed to add new functions, then functionality is extended, but the complexity and cost of installation increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefunctionality extensionVSAvoidinstallation process
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent uses copying by transmitting addition function information from an external terminal to the in-vehicle unit's control unit. Instead of physically installing new hardware, the system copies functional capabilities through data transmission and software execution, allowing new functions to be added by transmitting information rather than installing physical devices.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces the mechanical installation process with an information-based system. Instead of physically mounting new electronic devices and connecting wiring, the system uses communication units to transmit addition function information and software execution to add functions, substituting mechanical installation with digital information processing.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Data Source

PatentUS12141563B2Vehicle control system and vehicle control method
Publication Date: 2024.11.12 KK TOKAI RIKA DENKI SEISAKUSHO
  • US12141563B2 patent drawing
  • US12141563B2 patent drawing
  • US12141563B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A vehicle control system includes a terminal including a storage unit to store additional function information generated by software configured to add a new function to functionality of at least one electronic device mounted on a vehicle and a first communication unit to output the additional function information, and a vehicle control device including a second communication unit to communicate with the terminal through the first communication unit and configured to add a new function to the at least one electronic device based on the additional function information obtained from the terminal through the second communication unit.