Vehicle Function Sequencing With Trigger-Based Automation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle systems require repetitive manual activation and deactivation of multiple functions, leading to inefficiency and driver annoyance, as they lack the ability to adapt to individual needs and link specific vehicle functions to customizable triggering events.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a method that allows for the universal sequencing of vehicle functions through an intermediate software level, enabling the automated performance of vehicle functions based on predefined triggering events, using a control unit to select and execute vehicle function procedure schemas, and generating signals to control devices for automated execution.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If vehicle functions are manually activated and deactivated repeatedly, then the driver can control each function individually, but the driver experiences annoyance and inefficiency due to repetitive tasks
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by pre-defining sequences of vehicle functions that automatically execute when triggered. Instead of manually activating each function during operation, the driver pre-configures sequences (e.g., parking sequence, delivery sequence) that are automatically performed when specific conditions are met, eliminating repetitive manual operations and time loss.
Solution Approach 2:
The system creates copies of function sequences that can be reused multiple times. Once a sequence of vehicle functions is defined, it can be copied and executed repeatedly through triggers, allowing the same set of operations (e.g., closing windows, locking doors, activating parking brake) to be performed automatically without manual reconfiguration each time.
2Extent of automation
If automated vehicle functions are implemented with predetermined triggers, then automation is achieved, but the system lacks adaptability to individual driver needs and changing conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements dynamics by allowing the driver to dynamically configure and modify vehicle function sequences and their associated triggers according to individual needs. The system transitions from static, manufacturer-predetermined functions to dynamic, user-adaptable sequences where triggers and function combinations can be customized based on specific driving situations and personal preferences.
Solution Approach 2:
The system achieves universality by creating a multi-functional platform that can handle various types of vehicle functions through a unified sequence definition approach. The same automation framework can manage different function types (windows, locks, brakes, climate control) and adapt to different driving scenarios, making the system versatile rather than dedicated to specific predetermined operations.
3Productivity
If multiple control devices and actuators are used for vehicle function sequences, then comprehensive control is achieved, but the system complexity increases and requires extensive knowledge of control unit assignments
Solution Approach 1:
The system introduces an intermediary layer (the sequence definition and trigger management interface) that sits between the driver and the complex control devices/actuators. This intermediary abstracts the complexity by providing a simplified way to define sequences and set triggers, automatically handling the coordination of multiple control units without requiring the driver to understand which control device is responsible for which function.
Solution Approach 2:
The system merges the control of multiple disparate control devices and actuators into unified function sequences. Instead of managing each control unit separately, the system combines them into integrated sequences where multiple functions are coordinated through a single trigger, reducing the perceived complexity while maintaining comprehensive system control capability.
4Adaptability or versatility
If vehicle function procedures are re-implemented for every environmental change, then the system adapts to new configurations, but the re-implementation process is time-consuming and inefficient
Solution Approach 1:
When environmental changes occur (new vehicle configurations, added functions), the system uses copying to replicate existing function sequences and trigger definitions rather than re-implementing from scratch. The sequence definition can be copied and adapted to new conditions, maintaining consistency across different configurations while minimizing the time required to accommodate changes.
Solution Approach 2:
The system achieves universal adaptability by designing a flexible sequence definition framework that can accommodate various environmental configurations without requiring specific re-implementation. The same sequence definition mechanism works across different vehicle setups, function types, and trigger conditions, allowing the system to adapt to changes while maintaining a consistent approach rather than requiring custom implementations for each scenario.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for the automated performance of vehicle functions is specified. The method includes: checking for the existence of a triggering event; if there is a triggering event, selecting a vehicle function procedure schema associated with the present triggering event; generating and outputting a signal representing the linked vehicle function procedure schema 3a, 3b, 3c to a service; generating and outputting service signals 6a, 6b, 6c based on a signal 4 representing the linked vehicle function procedure schema to control devices; designed for controlling vehicle function devices; generating and outputting control signals based on the service signals to the vehicle function devices; and performing vehicle functions 1a, 1b, 1c based on the control signals. In addition, a system for the automated performance of vehicle functions, a vehicle with such a system, a computer program, and a computer-readable medium are specified.