Vehicle Electronics Extension Modules for Upgradable Multimedia Units
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Solution Overview
Problem
Modern vehicle multimedia units often become outdated due to insufficient hardware capabilities, making it impractical to upgrade them, especially in car-sharing scenarios where different users require varying levels of functionality.
Innovation Solution
An extendable vehicle electronics system comprising a base unit and an extension module with a processor that processes input data to generate output data for transmission to the base unit, allowing for the integration of new sensors and functional blocks without replacing the base unit, using wireless communication and power transfer for flexibility and compatibility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If the base unit is upgraded with new hardware components, then the hardware capabilities and processing power are improved, but the integration complexity and compatibility issues increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system is divided into a base unit and separate extension modules. Each module contains specific electronic components (sensors, processors, transceivers) that can be independently developed, tested, and upgraded without affecting the base unit. This segmentation allows new hardware capabilities to be added while maintaining the original system's stability and reducing integration complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The base unit is designed with universal interfaces (module locator, base data transceiver) that can accommodate multiple different types of extension modules. The system supports various sensor types (cameras, microphones, radar) and communication protocols through standardized connection mechanisms, enabling one base unit to work with multiple functional extensions without requiring custom integration for each component.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the base unit is replaced to add new functionality, then the hardware capabilities are improved, but the cost and disruption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The base unit is pre-equipped with universal interfaces and communication protocols during manufacturing, preparing it in advance to accept various extension modules. This preliminary configuration of module locators and base data transceivers with standardized protocols enables future functionality upgrades without requiring base unit replacement, thereby reducing costs and disruption.
3Measurement precision
If higher resolution sensor components are integrated, then the measurement precision is improved, but the communication protocol compatibility and data format compatibility deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The extension module acts as an intermediary between high-resolution sensors and the base unit. The module data transceiver within the extension module handles communication with the base data transceiver, translating and adapting data formats and protocols. This intermediary layer enables high-resolution sensors to communicate effectively with the base unit without requiring changes to the base unit's existing communication infrastructure.
4Ease of operation
If the multimedia unit provides updated services, then the user experience is improved, but the system becomes outdated more quickly
Solution Approach 1:
The system is designed to be dynamically upgradable through the extension module architecture. New services and functionalities can be added by installing new extension modules without replacing the entire base unit. This dynamic capability allows the system to evolve and adapt to changing user experience requirements while extending the operational lifespan of the base unit, preventing it from becoming outdated.
Data Source
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AI summary
Extendable vehicle electronics system (20) including a base unit (10) having base electronic components (11-15) for implementing base electronic functions. An extension module (2) includes a module data transceiver (221) and extension electronic components (21-23) operable in combination with the base electronic components (11-15) for implementing extended electronic functions. A base data transceiver (11) is used for communications between the base unit (10) and the module data transceiver (221). A module locator (102) locates the extension module (2) for communication between the base unit (10) and the module data transceiver (221). The extension electronic components (21-23) comprise a processor (22) for processing input data to generate output data within the extension module (2) for transmission to the base unit (10).