GB2536709B

GB2536709B - External vehicle control system

Info

Publication number: GB2536709B
Application number: GB1505253.3A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Kelly James
Original assignee: Jaguar Land Rover Ltd
Current assignee: Jaguar Land Rover Ltd
Priority date: 2015-03-27
Filing date: 2015-03-27
Publication date: 2019-06-26
Anticipated expiration: 2035-03-27
Also published as: GB2536709A; GB201505253D0

Description

EXTERNAL VEHICLE CONTROL SYSTEM

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure relates to an external vehicle control system and particularly, but not exclusively, to a control device for controlling dynamic operation of a vehicle. Aspects of the invention relate to a system, to a control unit, to a device, to a method and to a vehicle.

BACKGROUND

It is known to provide a remote control system for remotely controlling a motor vehicle. These systems typically comprise a wireless control unit for transmitting a control signal to a receiver disposed in the vehicle. The user is remote from the vehicle and this can lead to disorientation problems as the relative orientation of the vehicle changes.

At least in certain embodiments, the present invention sets out to overcome or ameliorate at least some of the problems associated with known vehicle control systems.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Aspects of the present invention relate to an external control device for controlling dynamic operation of a vehicle, a control unit for controlling dynamic operation of a vehicle, a method of controlling a vehicle, and to a vehicle, as set out in the appended claims.

According to an example of the disclosure there is provided a device for controlling dynamic operation of a vehicle from outside the vehicle. The device may comprise a user interface for receiving user inputs. The device may comprise a processor configured to generate at least one external control signal in dependence on said user inputs. The device may comprise a transmitter coupled to the processor. The transmitter may be configured to transmit the at least one external control signal to a control unit disposed in the vehicle for controlling dynamic operation of the vehicle. The device may comprise mounting means for releasably mounting the external control device to the vehicle.

The processor may be configured to generate the at least one external control signal only when the external control device is mounted to, or at least in physical contact with, the vehicle. The processor may be configured to inhibit transmission of the at least one external control signal when the external control device is not mounted to the vehicle.

Alternatively, or in addition, the processor may be configured to generate the at least one external control signal whether or not the external control device is mounted to the vehicle and the control unit disposed in the vehicle may be configured to control the vehicle in response to the external control signal only when the external control device is mounted to, or at least in physical contact with, the vehicle and to disregard or ignore the external control signal, or to inhibit dynamic operation of the vehicle, if the external control device is not mounted to or in physical contact with the vehicle. Thus, the device may be operable to control dynamic operation of the vehicle when the device is mounted to the vehicle, and may be non-operative when not mounted to the vehicle.

The device may receive an activation signal from a vehicle control unit when it is mounted to the vehicle. For example, a location identifying means disposed in the vehicle may transmit the activation signal when the external control device is mounted to the vehicle. One or more transmitters/receivers may be configured to determine the location of the device in relation to the vehicle. Alternatively, the device may comprise sensing means for determining when it is mounted to the vehicle.

The device may comprise an external control device. According to an example of the disclosure, there is provided a system comprising the device and a control unit disposed within the vehicle.

The processor may be configured to modify the at least one external control signal in dependence on the determined location of the external control device.

According to an example of the disclosure there is provided an external control device for controlling dynamic operation of a vehicle from outside the vehicle. The external control device may comprise a user interface for receiving user inputs. The external control device may comprise a processor configured to generate at least one external control signal in dependence on said user inputs. The external control device may comprise a transmitter coupled to the processor and configured to transmit the at least one external control signal to a control unit disposed in the vehicle for controlling dynamic operation of the vehicle. The external control device may comprise location identifying means for determining the location of the external control device in relation to the vehicle.

The processor may be configured to modify the at least one external control signal in dependence on the determined location of the external control device. By determining the location of the external control device and modifying the at least one external control signal, at least in certain embodiments the external control device may implement an intuitive control strategy.

The processor may be configured to generate the at last one external control signal in a first sense when the external control device is located on a first side of the vehicle and to generate the at least one external control signal in a second sense when the external control device is located on a second side of the vehicle. The first sense may be the reverse of the second sense. The first and second sides may be the left and right hand sides of the vehicle and the processor may be configured to reverse steering direction inputs in dependence on the determined side of the vehicle on which the external control device is located. Alternatively, or in addition, a transmission control signal could be configured to select Drive or Reverse depending on whether the external control device is located at the front or rear of the vehicle. Alternatively, or in addition, a torque request control signal could be reversed depending on whether the external control device is located at the front or rear of the vehicle. When the external control device is mounted to the front of the vehicle, application of a force in a first direction may generate a torque request signal to increase the delivery of torque; and application of a force in a second direction may generate a torque request signal to decrease the delivery of torque. Conversely, when the external control device is mounted to the rear of the vehicle, application of a force in said first direction may generate a torque request signal to decrease the delivery of torque; and application of a force in said second direction may generate a torque request signal to decrease the delivery of torque.

The external control device may comprise means for determining the orientation of the external control device. The orientation determining means may comprise a gyroscope, an accelerometer, or a tilt switch. The orientation determining means may determine if the external control device is in an upright orientation or in an inverted orientation. The processor may be configured to modify the at least one external control signal in dependence on the determined orientation of the external control device. The processor may be configured to generate the at least one external control signal in a first sense when the external control device is in a first orientation and to generate the at least one external control signal in a second sense when the external control device is in a second orientation. The first sense may be the reverse of the second sense. The processor may be configured to determine the orientation of the external control device. Alternatively, the external control device may be configured to output the at least one external control signal and an orientation signal to enable the vehicle control system to modify the dynamic operation of the vehicle in dependence on the determined orientation.

The external control device may comprise coupling means for coupling the external control device to a vehicle access device for communicating with the vehicle to enable access to the vehicle. The external control device may be operable only when the external control device is coupled to the vehicle access device. The vehicle access device may communicate with the vehicle to authenticate the user. For example, the vehicle access device may transmit an authentication signal to the vehicle. Alternate authentication methods could utilise a personal identification number (PIN), an identification code, finger prints etc. The vehicle access device may be in the form of a key fob. The coupling means may be configured to establish a wired connection or a wireless connection. The external control device may comprise a recess for receiving the key fob.

The external control device may comprise authentication means to authenticate the user. The authentication means can, for example, be in the form of a keypad (numerical or alphanumerical). Alternatively, the authentication means may comprise a biometric sensor, for example a fingerprint scanner.

The at least one external control signal may comprise one or more of the following: (a) a braking request signal; (b) a steering control signal; (c) a transmission control signal; (d) a torque request signal; (e) engine start/stop signal; (f) tyre pressure(s) signal; (g) High/Low range selection signal; (h) suspension height setting signal; (i) signal for selecting traction control mode (for example Terrain Response®); and (j) tow bar deploy signal.

The transmitter may be a wireless transmitter for transmitting the at least one external control signal wirelessly to the control unit disposed in the vehicle.

The external control device may comprise a user detecting means for detecting the user. The user detecting means may be configured to detect when the user is in contact with the external control device or proximal to the external control device. The processor may be configured to generate the at least one external control signal only when the user detecting means detects the user. The user detecting means may be configured to detect physical contact of the user. The user detecting means could be one or more of the following: a contact switch, a proximity sensor, an inductive sensor, a capacitive sensor, a magnetic sensor, and a photoelectric sensor. Alternatively, the user detecting means could be in the form of a spring-biased activation switch which is depressed to activate the external control device. The processor may be configured to inhibit transmission of the at least one external control signal when said user detecting means no longer detects the user. This may signal that the user has released the external control device. The processor may be configured to generate a stop signal when the user detecting means determines that user contact is terminated. At least in certain embodiments, ensuring that the user remains in physical contact with the external control device may provide improved safety. In the event that the user is no longer detected by the user detection means, the external control device (or the system disposed in the vehicle) may be configured automatically to bring the vehicle to a controlled stop. The user detecting means could be configured to determine when a user is gripping or holding the external control device, for example to determine when the user is holding an operating handle or an input device.

The mounting means may comprise at least one suction pad or at least one magnetic coupler.

The mounting means may comprise a mechanical mounting device for mounting the external control device to an exterior of the vehicle. The mechanical mounting device could cooperate with an exterior body structure. The mechanical mounting device may cooperate with one or more external panels, such as a panel gap, an edge of a panel, a window opening. Alternatively, the mechanical mounting device may cooperate with an external body feature, such as a recess or a projection formed in a body panel or a bumper. Alternatively, the mechanical mounting device may be configured to cooperate with a door handle, a boot lid or a dedicated mounting point. The mechanical mounting device may comprise a clip, a latching assembly, or a locking mechanism.

The external control device may comprise a visual display for indicating a dynamic operating mode of the vehicle.

According to an example of the disclosure there is provided a method of controlling a vehicle comprising detecting one or more user inputs to a control device, determining whether said control device is in physical contact with the vehicle and causing said vehicle to move and/or operate in response to said user inputs if it is determined that said control device is in physical contact with the vehicle. The method may comprise inhibiting said vehicle from moving and/or operating in response to said user inputs if it is determined that said control device is not in physical contact with the vehicle.

The method may comprise generating and transmitting a control signal from said control device to said vehicle in dependence on said user inputs.

According to an example of the disclosure there is provided a system for controlling a vehicle comprising a control device configured to receive one or more user inputs, means for determining whether said user and/or said control device is in physical contact with the vehicle, and means for controlling said vehicle to move and/or operate in response to said user inputs if it is determined that said user and/or said control device is in physical contact with the vehicle. The method may comprise prohibiting said vehicle from moving and/or operating in response to said user inputs if it is determined that said user and/or said control device is not in physical contact with the vehicle.

According to an example of the disclosure there is provided an external control device for controlling dynamic operation of a vehicle from outside the vehicle, the external control device comprising: a user interface for receiving user inputs; a processor configured to generate at least one external control signal in dependence on said user inputs; a transmitter coupled to the processor and configured to transmit the at least one external control signal to a control unit disposed in the vehicle for controlling dynamic operation of the vehicle; and mounting means for releasably mounting the external control device to the vehicle; wherein the processor is configured to generate the at least one external control signal only when the external control device is mounted to the vehicle.

According to an example of the disclosure there is provided a control unit for controlling dynamic operation of a vehicle. The control unit may comprise a processor configured to receive at least one external control signal from an external control device and/or generate at least one dynamic control signal in dependence on the received external control signal for controlling dynamic operation of the vehicle. The processor may be configured to generate the at least one dynamic control signal only when the external control device is mounted to the vehicle. The control unit may be configured to inhibit the output of said external control signal when the external control device is detached from the vehicle. The control unit may be an onboard control unit disposed in the vehicle.

The processor may be configured to determine the location of the external control device in relation to the vehicle. The external control unit and/or the processor disposed in the vehicle may be used to determine the location of the external control device. The external control unit and the processor disposed in the vehicle may communicate with each other to determine the location of the external control device. The processor may be configured to modify the at least one dynamic control signal in dependence on the determined location of the external control device. For example, the dynamic control signal may be reversed in dependence on which side of the vehicle the external control device is mounted.

According to an example of the disclosure there is provided a control unit for controlling dynamic operation of a vehicle. The control unit may comprise a processor configured to receive at least one external control signal from an external control device and/or generate at least one dynamic control signal in dependence on the received external control signal for controlling dynamic operation of the vehicle. The processor may be configured to determine the location of the external control device in relation to the vehicle and to modify the at least one dynamic control signal in dependence on the determined location. The control unit may be an onboard control unit disposed in the vehicle.

The processor may be configured to generate the at least one dynamic control signal in a first sense when the external control device is located on a first side of the vehicle and to generate the at least one dynamic control signal in a second sense when the external control device is located on a second side of the vehicle, the first sense being the reverse of the second sense.

The processor may be configured to receive a locating signal from one or more wireless transceiver to determine the location of the external control device. The one or more wireless transceiver may be configured to transmit a first locating signal to the external control device; and to receive a second locating signal from the external control device. The processor may be configured to determine that the external control device is mounted to the vehicle based on the determined location of the external control device. Alternatively, the processor may be configured to determine when the external control device is mounted to the vehicle in dependence on a signal received from the external control device.

The processor may be configured to receive an orientation signal from the external control device. The processor may be configured to modify the at least one dynamic control signal in dependence on the orientation signal. The processor may be configured to generate the at least one dynamic control signal in a first sense when the external control device is in a first orientation and to generate the at least one dynamic control signal in a second sense when the external control device is in a second orientation. The first sense may be the reverse of the second sense.

The processor may be configured to determine an orientation of the external control device. The processor may modify the at least one dynamic control signal in dependence on the orientation signal.

According to an example of the disclosure there is provided an external control device for controlling dynamic operation of a vehicle from outside the vehicle. The device may comprise a user interface for receiving user inputs. The device may comprise a processor configured to generate at least one external control signal in dependence on said user inputs. The device may comprise a transmitter coupled to the processor and configured to transmit the at least one external control signal to a control unit disposed in the vehicle for controlling dynamic operation of the vehicle. The device may comprise orientation determining means for determining the orientation of the external control device. The processor may be configured to modify the at least one external control signal in dependence on the determined orientation of the external control device.

According to an example of the disclosure there is provided a control unit for controlling dynamic operation of a vehicle. The control unit may comprise a processor configured to receive at least one external control signal from an external control device and/or generate at least one dynamic control signal in dependence on the received external control signal for controlling dynamic operation of the vehicle. The processor may be configured to determine the orientation of the external control device in relation to the vehicle and to modify the at least one dynamic control signal in dependence on the determined orientation.

According to an example of the disclosure there is provided a vehicle comprising a control unit as described herein. The vehicle may be in combination with an external control device as described herein.

According to an example of the disclosure there is provided a control system for controlling dynamic operation of a vehicle, the control system comprising: an external control device as described herein; and a control unit as described herein.

Within the scope of the claims of this application it is expressly intended that the various aspects, embodiments, examples and alternatives set out in the preceding paragraphs, in the claims and/or in the following description and drawings, and in particular the individual features thereof, may be taken independently or in any combination. That is, all embodiments and/or features of any embodiment may be combined in any way and/or combination, unless such features are incompatible. The applicant reserves the right to change any originally filed claim or file any new claim accordingly, including the right to amend any originally filed claim to depend from and/or incorporate any feature of any other claim although not originally claimed in that manner.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

One or more embodiments of the present invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying Figures, in which:

Figure 1 illustrates an external vehicle control system for controlling a vehicle in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 2 shows the external control device in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 3 shows a schematic representation of the external control device shown in Figure 2; and

Figure 4 shows a schematic representation of an onboard control unit for controlling dynamic operation of the vehicle.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

An external vehicle control system 1 in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention will now be described with reference to Figures 1 to 4. The external vehicle control system 1 comprises an external control device 3 for communicating wirelessly with an onboard control unit 5 (i.e. a control unit disposed in the vehicle) to control dynamic operation of a vehicle V. As illustrated in Figure 1, the external control device 3 is a handheld device which can be releasably mounted to an exterior of the vehicle V and operated to control dynamic operation of the vehicle V from outside the vehicle V.

As shown in Figure 2, the external control device 3 comprises first and second suction cups 7, 9 for releasably mounting the external control device 3 to an exterior of the vehicle V. First and second actuating levers 11,13 are associated with the first and second suction cups 7, 9 to establish a low pressure region for fixedly mounting the external control device 3 to a nonporous surface, such as an exterior body panel or a glazing panel P of the vehicle V, as illustrated in Figure 1. The first and second actuating levers 11, 13 are operated manually and can be released to remove the external control device 3. As shown in Figure 3, the external control device 3 also comprises first and second micro-switches 15, 17 to monitor actuation of the respective first and second actuating levers 11, 13. In an alternate arrangement, the first and second suction cups 7, 9 could be operated by an electromechanical actuator.

The external control device 3 comprises a user interface 19 for receiving user inputs. In the present embodiment, the user interface 19 comprises a handle 21, a parking brake button 23, an engine start button 25, a headlight control button 27, a transmission drive selector 29, and an output display 31. The handle 21 is rotatable about a longitudinal axis X and can also undergo translation along the longitudinal axis X. The handle 21 is spring biased towards respective neutral angular and linear positions. As described herein, rotating the handle 21 in a first direction causes the vehicle V to steer in a first direction; and rotating the handle 21 in a second direction causes the vehicle V to steer in a second direction. The first and second directions correspond to steering the vehicle V to the left or to the right. The angular rotation of the handle 21 about the longitudinal axis X determines the resulting steering angle applied to the vehicle V. Displacing the handle 21 along the longitudinal axis X controls the speed of travel of the vehicle V. In particular, the axial displacement of the handle 21 along the longitudinal axis X corresponds to a torque request output by the external control device 3. The parking brake button 23 is operated to control actuation of the vehicle parking brake; and the engine start button 25 is operated to control ignition of an internal combustion engine. The headlight control button 27 is operated to activate/deactivate vehicle headlights (and optionally also spotlights) and could also be used selectively to activate a full-beam mode. The transmission drive selector 29 is a rotary wheel operable to manually select the Reverse, Neutral, Park and Drive modes for an automatic transmission. The Reverse and Drive modes can be selected automatically in dependence on the translational movements of the handle 21, for example selecting Drive when the handle 21 is moved towards the front of the vehicle V and selective Reverse when the handle 21 is moved towards the rear of the vehicle. The output display 31 comprises a plurality of light emitting diodes (LEDs) 33A-D selectively illuminated to indicate the current selected transmission mode (Reverse, Neutral, Park and Drive).

The external control device 3 comprises contact sensing means in the form of a contact sensor 35 to detect when a user is in contact with the external control device 3. In the present embodiment, the contact sensor 35 is disposed in the handle 21 to determine when the user is holding the handle 21. If the contact sensor 35 determines that the user has released the handle 21, a stop signal is transmitted to the vehicle V to initiate application of a braking force to bring the vehicle V to a controlled stop, or to maintain the vehicle V in a stationary condition. The contact sensor 35 can be a spring-biased mechanical switch or trigger which the user actuates when gripping the handle 21. In a variant, the contact sensor 35 could be an electrical circuit which is completed when a user holds the handle 21. Alternatively, a pressure sensor or a temperature sensor could be incorporated into the handle 21 to detect the user contacting the handle 21. A proximity sensor can be used in place of, or in addition to, the contact sensor 35.

The external control device 3 is configured to be coupled to a vehicle access device 37, such as an electronic key fob, associated with the vehicle V. An interrogation process is performed to couple the external control device 3 to the vehicle access device 37. The interrogation process can, for example, comprise transmitting an authentication code from the external control device 3 to the vehicle access device 37. In the present embodiment, the external control device 3 is operable only when coupled to the vehicle access device 37. As shown in Figure 2, a recess 39 is formed in an outer casing of the external control device 3 to receive the vehicle access device 37. The interrogation process can be initiated when the vehicle access device 37 is located in the recess 39. Alternatively, the user can depress a button (not shown) on the vehicle access device 37 to couple the vehicle access device 37 to the external control device 3. A schematic representation of the external control device 3 is shown in Figure 3. The external control device 3 comprises a first processor in the form of a first central processing unit (CPU) 41, a first system memory 43, a first transceiver 45, and an orientation sensor 47. The first CPU 41 is configured to execute a set of software instructions held in the first system memory 43. The first CPU 41 connected to the first transceiver 45 for communicating wirelessly with the onboard control unit 5. The first transceiver 45 comprises a first antenna 49. The orientation sensor 47 is configured to determine the orientation of the external control device 3 and can, for example, be in the form of a tilt switch or a gyroscope. A rechargeable battery (not shown) is provided in the external control device 3 to power the first CPU 41.

The first CPU 41 is configured to receive user input signals Sin from the user interface 19. The first CPU 41 generates external control signal Sout in dependence on the user input signals Sin to control dynamic operation of the vehicle V. The at least one external control signal Sout can comprise one or more of the following: (a) a braking request signal for controlling operation of a vehicle brake system; (b) a steering control signal for controlling a steering angle of the vehicle; (c) a transmission control signal for controlling selection of a transmission gear; (d) a torque request signal for controlling a torque request to an internal combustion engine or a traction motor; (e) engine start/stop control signal; (f) tyre pressure(s) control signal; (g) transfer case control signal for selecting High/Low range; (h) Signal for controlling suspension height; (i) signal for selecting traction control mode (for example Terrain Response®); and (j) signal to control deployment of a tow bar.

It will be understood that the at least one external control signal Sout can correspond to any control in the vehicle V. The external control device 3 can output information conventionally shown on the main display in the vehicle V, for example to access to the 4x4 information screens and the surround vehicle camera displays. Alternatively or in addition, the external control device 3 can output information from a parking distance warning, for example to facilitate manoeuvring the vehicle V in a restricted space.

The first CPU 41 can be configured to alter the at least one external control signal Sout in dependence on an orientation signal S3 received from the orientation sensor 47. As described herein, rotating the handle 21 in a first direction causes the vehicle V to steer in a first direction; and rotating the handle 21 in a second direction because the vehicle to steer in a second direction. The sense in which the vehicle V is steered can be adjusted depending on the determined orientation of the external control device 3. If the orientation sensor 47 determines that the external control device 3 is inverted, the first and second directions can be reversed. The first CPU 41 can be configured to modify the at least one external control signal Sout in dependence on the determined orientation of the external control device 3. Alternatively, an orientation signal could be transmitted to enable the steering control signals to be reversed by the onboard control unit 5.

The at least one external control signals Sout are transmitted by the first transceiver 45 to the onboard control unit 5 disposed in the vehicle V. The onboard control unit 5 comprises a second processor in the form of a second central processing unit (CPU) 51 coupled to a second system memory 53. The onboard control unit 5 is coupled to one or more vehicle control systems 55 configured to control apparatus for controlling dynamic operation of the vehicle V. The second CPU 51 is configured to generate at least one dynamic control signal

Sdyn in dependence on the at least one external control signal Sout received from the external control device 3. The dynamic control signal(s) Sdyn is output to the respective vehicle systems to control dynamic operation of the vehicle V. The vehicle control systems 55 can include one or more of the following: a braking control unit 55A (for example an antilock brakes system (ABS) control module), an engine control unit 55B, a transmission control unit 55C, a steering control unit 55D (for example electronic power assisted steering (EPAS) module). The external control signals Sout can optionally comprise one or more of the following: a High/Low transfer case control signal, a chassis control module (for example for controlling the air suspension and the Terrain Response®), a parking distance control (PDC) sensors, a camera module, a central tyre inflation system (CTIS), a tow bar deployment etc. The second CPU 51 can, for example, publish the dynamic control signal(s) Sdyn to a communication area network (CAN) bus for access by the respective vehicle control systems.

The second CPU 51 is connected to location identifying means in the form of a location identifying unit 57 configured to determine the location of the external control device 3 in relation to the vehicle V. The location identifying unit 57 comprising three (3) antennas 59A-C arranged to transmit respective locating signals to the vehicle access device 37. The antennas 59A-C are spaced apart from each other on the vehicle V. By measuring the time-of-flight of the locating signals, the relative position (bearing and range) of the vehicle access device 37 can be determined using triangulation techniques. Since the vehicle access device 37 is disposed in the external control device 3, the second CPU 51 uses the determined position of the vehicle access device 37 to determine the position of the external control device 3. The second CPU 51 can be configured to determine whether the external control device 3 has been mounted to the vehicle V in dependence on the determined location thereof. The location identifying unit 57 can, for example, utilise ultra-wideband (UWB) technology having an operating frequency of between 3.1GHz and 10.6GHz and can enable high bandwidth communications with low power consumption. A suitable operating protocol is provided under IEEE 802.15.4a. Furthermore, the sub-set of UWB frequencies designated as Band Group 6 (consisting of Bands #9, #10 and #11, ranging from 7412MHz to 8976MHz) can be used. The location identifying unit 57 can determine the location of the vehicle access device 37 to an accuracy of within 10cm.

The second CPU 51 can be configured to control the output of the dynamic control signal(s) Sdyn in dependence on the determined location of the external control device 3. In particular, the second CPU 51 is configured to ensure that directional user inputs, such as those generated in dependence on the rotation and/or translation of the handle 21, result in an expected response by the vehicle V. The steering and torque request signals are reversed depending on whether the external control device 3 is mounted to the left side or to the right side of the vehicle V. Thus, irrespective of the side of the vehicle V on which the external control device 3 is mounted, displacing the handle 21 towards the front of the vehicle V causes the second CPU 51 to generate a dynamic control signal(s) Sdyn for selecting Drive and requesting the delivery of torque. Conversely, displacing the handle 21 towards the rear of the vehicle V causes the second CPU 51 to generate a dynamic control signal(s) Sdyn to select Reverse and to request the delivery of torque. The second CPU 51 is configured also to modify the steering control signal such that the rotation of the handle 21 about the longitudinal axis X results in an expected steering angle for the vehicle V. In particular, the second CPU 51 is configured to generate a steering control signal which corresponds to an equivalent rotation of the steering wheel of the vehicle V. Thus, when the external control device 3 is mounted to the right hand side of the vehicle V, rotating the handle 21 in a clockwise direction results in the output of a steering control signal to steer the vehicle V to the right. However, when the external control device 3 is mounted to the left hand side of the vehicle V the same rotational movement results in the output of a steering control signal to steer the vehicle V to the left.

The first CPU 41 implements a control strategy to inhibit the output of control signals when the external control device 3 is not mounted to the vehicle V. As part of this control strategy, the first CPU 41 checks the state of the first and second micro-switches 15, 17 to check that the first and second actuating levers 11, 13 have been operated to engage the first and second suction cups 7, 9. Alternatively, or in addition, if the location identifying unit 57 determines that the external control device 3 is not mounted to the vehicle V, the second CPU 51 can inhibit the output of the dynamic control signal(s) Sdyn. The second CPU 51 could, for example, be configured to control the output of the dynamic control signal(s) Sdyn dependent on one or more range thresholds.

The operation of the external vehicle control system 1 will now be described. The user locates the vehicle access device 37 in the recess 39. The vehicle access device 37 couples with the first CPU 41 and the external control device 3 is activated. The external control device 3 is then placed against the exterior body panel P of the vehicle V and the first and second actuating levers 11, 13 are operated to engage the first and second suction cups 7, 9. The external control device 3 is thereby fixedly mounted to the exterior of the vehicle V. If either the first CPU 41 or the second CPU 51 determines that the external control device 3 is not mounted to the exterior of the vehicle V, operation of the external vehicle control system 1 is inhibited.

The external control device 3 can then be used to control dynamic operation of the vehicle V via the user interface 19. The user rotates the handle 21 to control the steering angle of the vehicle V; and displaces the handle 21 to select Drive/Reverse and speed of travel of the vehicle V. The first CPU 41 receives the respective control signals Sin from the user interface 19 and generates at least one external control signal Sout for transmission wirelessly to the second CPU 51. The second CPU 51 receives the external control signal(s) Sout and these are converted to dynamic control signal(s) Sdyn for transmission to the respective vehicle systems. The user can thereby control dynamic operation of the vehicle V via the external control device 3. The contact sensor 35 can detect if the user releases the handle 21. In the event of the handle 21 being released, the external control device 3 is configured to transmit a stop signal to the onboard control unit 5 causing the vehicle V to be brought to a controlled stop.

At least in certain embodiments, the external vehicle control system 1 according to aspects of the present invention can facilitate positioning of the vehicle V in a confined space, for example to park in a garage or a restricted space which does not allow easy egress from the vehicle V. This may be particularly useful in a vehicle V having larger doors which otherwise may necessitate a search for another parking space. Other scenarios where the external vehicle control system 1 may prove particularly useful include moving the vehicle V onto a trailer, into a rail carriage or a plane for transportation. The external vehicle control system 1 can also be used to move the vehicle V a short distance, for example on a driveway, without the need for the driver to get into the vehicle. The external vehicle control system 1 can also be used where the driver has restricted vision of an obstacle, for example when manoeuvring in a restricted space. The external vehicle control system 1 could also be used at the end of a vehicle production line to move the vehicle V to a desired location.

It is envisaged that the maximum speed of the vehicle V would be inhibited when being controlled by the external control device 3. For example, the maximum speed could be restricted to a typical walking pace, for example 5 mph, to allow the user to walk alongside the vehicle V while it is controlled by the external control device 3.

When not in use, the external control device 3 can be stored in the vehicle V. A dock could be disposed in the occupant compartment, for example in a dashboard or door. The external control device 3 can be removed from the dock for use. The dock could optionally comprise an electrical connector for charging a battery in the external control device 3.

The external control device 3 has been described herein with reference to a user interface 19 comprising a movable handle 21. In an alternative arrangement, the external control device 3 can comprise a force sensing means operative to detect a force applied by the user in relation to the vehicle V. The force sensing means can be used to measure a force applied about one, two or three axis. A mechanical force sensor and/or an electrical force sensor can be used to detect the force applied by the user. The force sensing means can be in the form of a strain gauge. The external control device 3 would utilise the first and second suction cups 7, 9 for fixed mounting to the body panel P of the vehicle V. Once mounted to the vehicle V, the user would hold the external control device 3 and indicate the intended direction of motion by slight hand movements. The force sensing means detects a force applied to the external control device 3 and outputs an external control signal. In dependence on the external control signal, the onboard control unit 5 is configured to select the appropriate transmission gear and/or to control the steering and/or torque delivered in dependence on the force applied by the user. Pushing and pulling on the external control device 3 could cause the vehicle V to steer to the left or right. A hand motion to a centre position would stop the vehicle V. A hand motion in a direction towards the rear of the vehicle V could cause reverse gear to be selected and the vehicle to move backwards. The vehicle V would be brought to a safe, controlled stop if the external control device 3 was released at any time. The operation of the external control device 3 could be modified depending on its location on the exterior of the vehicle V. For example, different control strategies could be implemented depending on whether the external control device 3 is mounted to the front, rear or other side of the vehicle V. At least in certain embodiments this can facilitate intuitive behaviour of the vehicle V in relation to the user.

In a variant, the force sensing means could be in the form of a pressure sensing material, for example comprising an array of pressure sensors. The pressure sensing material can be used to determine a direction (and optionally also a magnitude) of an applied force which is used to generate the external control signal Sin. The magnitude of the applied force could be used as a control input, for example to generate a torque request signal. The pressure sensing material could be incorporated into the handle 21 or into the first and second suction cups 7, 9. Alternatively, or in addition, the pressure sensing material can be used as a user detecting means to determine when the user is contacting the handle 21, for example when they are gripping or holding the handle 21.

It will be appreciated that various changes and modifications can be made to the external control device described herein without departing from the scope of the present invention. For example, the function of the handle 21 can be reconfigured such that the torque request signal is generated in dependence on the angular rotation of the handle 21 about the longitudinal axis X (equivalent to a motor cycle throttle). Equally, the steering request signal can be generated in dependence on the translation of the handle 21 along the longitudinal axis X.

Further, the torque request signal and/or steering request signal can be generated in dependence on the pulling and pushing of the handle 21 perpendicular to the longitudinal axis X, and in dependence on the external control device 3. By way of example, if the handle 21 is mounted at the front of the vehicle and the handle 21 is pulled away from the vehicle V then the vehicle moves forward. If the handle is pushed towards the vehicle V, then the vehicle V will move backwards. If the handle 21 is mounted at the rear of the vehicle V and the handle 21 is pulled away from the vehicle V then the vehicle moves backwards. If the handle is pushed towards the vehicle V then the vehicle moves forwards. In these examples, where the handle 21 is mounted front or rear of the vehicle V, the translation of the handle 21 along the longitudinal axis X can be used to generate steering request to guide the direction of the vehicle V. If the handle 21 is mounted on the sides of the vehicle 21, the perpendicular movement of the handle 21 causes the vehicle to turn in the direction of push and pull in accordance with the force being applied.

The external control device 3 may detect other operator hand motions to control the vehicle V. For example, the external control device 3 can detect if the user’s hand or fingers are in physical contact with the external control device 3. The handle 21 can be configured to rotate about two (2) or three (3) axes. The external control device 3 could be configured to measure one or more of the following: grip strength; temperature of skin; individual finger or thumb motion combined finger and thumb motion (multi-point contact); shaking; and other rapid hand/finger movements.

The external control device 3 can comprise controls for other vehicle features. By way of example, the external control device 3 can implement one or more of the following control functions: raise/lower the vehicle suspension; open/close windows; open/close a tailgate; retract/deploy a towing arm; operate lights; and operate an audible warning from a parking sensor.

The external control device 3 could be configured for storage within an occupant compartment, for example inside a vehicle door or a dashboard of the vehicle. The driver can locate the vehicle access device 37 in the external control device 3 when driving. When the external control device 3 is to be used, it can be released from the door or dash board and then mounted to the vehicle.

The external control device 3 can be configured for mounting to a dedicated mounting point disposed on an exterior of the vehicle. In use, the external control device 3 can be fixedly mounted to the mounting point. The mounting point can, for example, comprise a mechanical connector for cooperating with the external control device 3.

The external control device 3 and/or the first CPU 41 could be modified such that dynamic operation of the vehicle V can be performed only when the external control device 3 is within a predefined operating range of the vehicle V. This configuration would not require that the external control device 3 is physically mounted to the vehicle V, rather that it is only operational when proximal to the vehicle. The operating range could be defined as within one (1) metre of the vehicle V, for example. The operating range would be defined as a distant which is less than a communication range of the transceivers provided in the external control device 3 and the vehicle V.

Claims

CLAIMS:

1. An external control device for controlling dynamic operation of a vehicle from outside the vehicle, the external control device comprising: a user interface for receiving user inputs; a processor configured to generate at least one external control signal in dependence on said user inputs; and a transmitter coupled to the processor and configured to transmit the at least one external control signal to a control unit disposed in the vehicle for controlling dynamic operation of the vehicle; wherein the processor is configured to generate the at least one external control signal only when the external control device is in physical contact with the vehicle.

2. An external control device as claimed in claim 1, comprising sensing means for determining when the external control device is in physical contact with and/or mounted to the vehicle.

3. An external control device as claimed in claim 1 or claim 2, comprising location identifying means for determining the location of the external control device on the vehicle.

4. An external control device as claimed in claim 3, wherein the processor is configured to modify the at least one external control signal in dependence on the determined location of the external control device.

5. An external control device as claimed in any preceding claim, comprising means for determining the orientation of the external control device.

6. An external control device as claimed in claim 5, wherein the processor is configured to modify the at least one external control signal in dependence on the determined orientation of the external control device.

7. An external control device as claimed in claim 6, wherein the processor is configured to generate the at least one external control signal in a first sense when the external control device is in a first orientation and to generate the at least one external control signal in a second sense when the external control device is in a second orientation, the first sense being the reverse of the second sense.

8. An external control device as claimed in any preceding claim, comprising means for coupling the external control device to a vehicle access device.

9. An external control device as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the at least one external control signal comprises one or more of the following: (a) a braking request signal; (b) a steering control signal; (c) a transmission control signal; (d) a torque request signal; (e) engine start/stop signal; (f) tyre pressure(s) signal; (g) High/Low range selection signal; (h) suspension height setting signal; (i) traction control signal; and (j) tow bar deploy signal.

10. An external control device as claimed in any preceding claim, comprising a user detecting means for detecting the user, wherein the processor is configured to generate the at least one external control signal only when the user detecting means detects the user.

11. An external control device as claimed in claim 10, wherein the processor is configured to generate a stop signal when the user detecting means no longer detects the user.

12. An external control device as claimed in any preceding claim, comprising mounting means for releasably mounting the external control device to the vehicle.

13. An external control device as claimed in claim 12, wherein the mounting means comprises at least one of the following: a suction pad, a magnetic coupler, a mounting bracket, a hook and a clip.

14. A control unit for controlling dynamic operation of a vehicle, the control unit comprising a processor configured to: receive at least one external control signal from an external control device; and generate at least one dynamic control signal in dependence on the received external control signal for controlling dynamic operation of the vehicle; wherein the processor is configured to generate the at least one dynamic control signal only when the external control device is in physical contact with and/or mounted to the vehicle.

15. A control unit as claimed in claim 14, wherein the processor is configured to determine the location of the external control device on the vehicle.

16. A control unit as claimed in claim 15, wherein the processor is configured to modify the at least one dynamic control signal in dependence on the determined location of the external control device.

17. A control unit as claimed in claim 16, wherein the processor is configured to generate the at least one dynamic control signal in a first sense when the external control device is located on a first side of the vehicle and to generate the at least one dynamic control signal in a second sense when the external control device is located on a second side of the vehicle, the first sense being the reverse of the second sense.

18. A control unit as claimed in any of claims 15 to 17, wherein the processor is configured to determine that the external control device is mounted to the vehicle based on the determined location of the external control device.

19. A control unit as claimed in any of claims 14 to 18, wherein the processor is configured to receive an orientation signal from the external control device, the processor being configured to modify the at least one dynamic control signal in dependence on the orientation signal.

20. A control unit as claimed in claim 19, wherein the processor is configured to generate the at least one dynamic control signal in a first sense when the external control device is in a first orientation and to generate the at least one dynamic control signal in a second sense when the external control device is in a second orientation, the first sense being the reverse of the second sense.

21. A control unit as claimed in any of claims 14 to 20, wherein the processor is configured to determine an orientation of the external control device, and to modify the at least one dynamic control signal in dependence on the orientation signal.

22. A vehicle comprising a control unit as claimed in any one of claims 14 to 21.

23. A vehicle as claimed in claim 22 in combination with an external control device as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 13.

24. A control system for controlling dynamic operation of a vehicle, the control system comprising: an external control device as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 13; and a control unit comprising a processor configured to: receive at least one external control signal from the external control device; and generate at least one dynamic control signal in dependence on the received external control signal for controlling dynamic operation of the vehicle.

25. A control system for controlling dynamic operation of a vehicle, the control system comprising: an external control device for controlling dynamic operation of a vehicle from outside the vehicle, the external control device comprising: a user interface for receiving user inputs; a processor configured to generate at least one external control signal in dependence on said user inputs; and a transmitter coupled to the processor and configured to transmit the at least one external control signal; and a control unit as claimed in any one of claims 14 to 21 for generating at least one dynamic control signal in dependence on the received external control signal for controlling dynamic operation of the vehicle.

26. A method of controlling a vehicle comprising: detecting one or more user inputs to an external control device; determining whether said external control device is in physical contact with the vehicle; and causing said vehicle to move and/or operate in response to said user inputs if it is determined that said external control device is in physical contact with the vehicle.

27. A method as claimed in claim 26, comprising inhibiting movement and/or operation of said vehicle in response to said user inputs if it is determined that said external control device is not in physical contact with the vehicle.