SE540405C2

SE540405C2 - Method and system for evaluating driving of a vehicle takinglevel of the vehicle into consideration

Info

Publication number: SE540405C2
Application number: SE1550811A
Authority: SE
Inventors: Hesse Johan
Original assignee: Scania Cv Ab
Priority date: 2015-06-15
Filing date: 2015-06-15
Publication date: 2018-09-11
Also published as: DE102016006493A1; SE1550811A1; BR102016010794A2; DE102016006493B4

Abstract

The present invention relates to a method for evaluating driving of a vehicle taking level of the vehicle into consideration. Different zones (ZA, ZB, ZC) for recommended level ranges relative to a normal level for the vehicle based on characteristics comprising road type (A, B, C) and vehicle speed are defined. The method comprises the step of determining the level of the vehicle relative to a normal level for the vehicle. The method further comprises the steps of: determining the current speed of the vehicle; and determining the type of road (A, B, C) on which the vehicle is travelling. The method comprises the step of determining whether the current level of the vehicle is within a range corresponding to a recommended zone based on the thus determined speed and road type.The present invention also relates to a system for evaluating driving of a vehicle taking level of the vehicle into consideration. The present invention also relates to a vehicle. The present invention also relates to a computer program and a computer program product.

Description

METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR EVALUATING DRIVING OF A VEHICLE TAKING LEVEL OF THE VEHICLE INTO CONSIDERATION TECHNICAL FIELD The invention relates to a method for evaluating driving of a vehicle taking level of the vehicle into consideration according to an embodiment of the present invention according to the preamble of claim 1. The invention also relates to a system for evaluating driving of a vehicle taking level of the vehicle into consideration according to an embodiment of the present invention. The invention in addition relates to a computer program and a computer program product.

BACKGROUND ART For vehicles such as trucks and buses level of the vehicle may be varied within a range for different reasons. The suspension system of such vehicles comprises many components that are sensible to driving conditions including the level of the vehicle. By driving the vehicle with a level that is not suitable for particular driving conditions and speed may damage such components and other components of the vehicle.

US5083275 discloses control of the level of the vehicle between target heights/levels depending on the vehicle driving condition such as vehicle speed and road surface.

There is however a need to further improve driving of a vehicle taking level of the vehicle into consideration.

OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION An object of the present invention is to provide a method for evaluating driving of a vehicle taking level of the vehicle into consideration according to an embodiment of the present invention which facilitates improving driving behaviour with regard to the level of the vehicle.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a system for evaluating driving of a vehicle taking level of the vehicle into consideration according to an embodiment of the present invention which facilitates improving driving behaviour with regard to the level of the vehicle.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION These and other objects, apparent from the following description, are achieved by a method, a system, a vehicle, a computer program and a computer program product, as set out in the appended independent claims. Preferred embodiments of the method and the system are defined in appended dependent claims.

Specifically an object of the invention is achieved by a method for evaluating driving of a vehicle taking level of the vehicle into consideration. Different zones for recommended level ranges relative to a normal level for the vehicle based on characteristics comprising road type and vehicle speed are defined. The method comprises the step of determining the level of the vehicle relative to a normal level for the vehicle. The method further comprises the steps of: determining the current speed of the vehicle; and determining the type of road on which the vehicle is travelling. The method comprises the step of determining whether the current level of the vehicle is within a range corresponding to a recommended zone based on the thus determined speed and road type. Hereby driving behaviour with regard to the level of the vehicle may be improved in that the it will be easy for the operator of the vehicle to understand the allowable level by thus defining zones and in that information of whether the current level of the vehicle is within a range corresponding to a recommended zone can be presented to the driver or stored for later assessment of the driving. Hereby the life expectancy of vehicle components affected by driving the vehicle with a level outside such a zone will be prolonged in that a more correct driving behaviour with regard to level of the vehicle, i.e. within a recommended zone, is facilitated. Thus, more sustainable driving is facilitated.

According to an embodiment of the method the characteristics for defining said different zones for recommended level ranges relative to said normal level for the vehicle further comprises at least one of the following: vehicle weight, aerodynamic properties, comfort, safety, handling, vehicle configuration, sustainability and wear of vehicle components. Hereby more accurate zones may be defined thus facilitating recommending a more accurate driving with regard to level of the vehicle such that the risk of damaging vehicle components affected by wrong level is reduced.

According to an embodiment the method comprises the step of evaluating the level of the vehicle during drive so as to determine if and to what extent the level of the vehicle has been outside a recommended zone. Hereby the driver and/or other users such as hauler, owner and/or other affected persons with interest of the vehicle will be informed of the extent to which driving with a recommended level was accomplished. If the driving behaviour with regard to level of the vehicle is not improved despite the evaluation restrictions with regard to regulation of the level of the vehicle may be activated. By thus evaluating the level a better understanding of the behaviour of vehicles and certain vehicle types is obtained.

According to an embodiment the method comprises the step of taking action so as to facilitate obtaining recommended level ranges if the level of the vehicle has been outside a recommended zone exceeding a determined extent. Hereby the behaviour with regard to level of the vehicle will be further improved.

According to an embodiment of the method the step of taking action comprises presenting for the operator of the vehicle that the current level of the vehicle is outside the recommended zone. Hereby the operator of the vehicle will be informed and may take action to change the level to a level within the recommended zone and/or change the speed of the vehicle so as to enter into a recommended zone. This thus further facilitates improving the driving behaviour with regard to level of the vehicle and thus reduces risk of damaging components of the vehicle sensitive to driving with the wrong level.

According to an embodiment of the method the step of taking action comprises presenting for the operator of the vehicle a recommended level range. Hereby the operator of the vehicle will be informed of the correct level and may take action to change the level to a level within the recommended zone. This thus further facilitates improving the driving behaviour with regard to level of the vehicle and thus reduces risk of damaging components of the vehicle sensitive to driving with the wrong level.

According to an embodiment of the method the step of taking action comprises changing the level of the vehicle to a level within the recommended zone, and/or adapting the vehicle speed so as to enter into a recommended zone. Hereby the driving with regard to level of the vehicle will be changed to a correct level and thus the risk of damaging components of the vehicle sensitive to driving with the wrong level is reduced.

According to an embodiment of the method said action of presenting for the operator of the vehicle a recommended level range is used for a lower extent than the extent corresponding to said action of changing the level of the vehicle to a level within the recommended zone, and/or adapting the vehicle speed so as to enter into a recommended zone. Hereby unnecessary control of the vehicle is avoided. Thus, automatic level change is only activated when it is really necessary, thus avoiding annoying the operator of the vehicle.

According to an embodiment the method comprises the step of storing, on board the vehicle and/or externally, the result of said evaluation of drive comprising the extent of driving outside a recommended zone. Hereby information of the performance of the operator of the vehicle will be stored and could be accessible to the driver and/or other users such as hauler, owner and/or other affected persons with interest of the vehicle. Thus hereby history of the extent to which driving with a recommended level was accomplished may be stored and made accessible to persons with interest of the vehicle. By thus storing the history of the driving behaviour a better understanding of the behaviour of vehicles and certain vehicle types may be obtained.

Specifically an object of the invention is achieved by a system for evaluating driving of a vehicle taking level of the vehicle into consideration. The system comprises means for determining the level of the vehicle relative to a normal level for the vehicle. Different zones for recommended level ranges relative to a normal level for the vehicle based on characteristics comprising road type and vehicle speed are arranged to be defined. The system comprises means for determining the current speed of the vehicle; means for determining the type of road on which the vehicle is travelling; and, means for determining whether the current level of the vehicle is within a range corresponding to a recommended zone based on the thus determined speed and road type.

According to an embodiment of the system the characteristics for defining said different zones for recommended level ranges relative to said normal level for the vehicle further comprises at least one of the following: vehicle weight, aerodynamic properties, comfort, safety, handling, vehicle configuration, sustainability and wear of vehicle components.

According to an embodiment the system comprises means for evaluating the level of the vehicle during drive so as to determine if and to what extent the level of the vehicle has been outside a recommended zone.

According to an embodiment the system comprises means for taking action so as to facilitate obtaining recommended level ranges if the level of the vehicle has been outside a recommended zone exceeding a determined extent.

According to an embodiment of the system the means for taking action comprises means for presenting for the operator of the vehicle that the current level of the vehicle is outside the recommended zone.

According to an embodiment of the system the means for taking action comprises means for presenting for the operator of the vehicle a recommended level range.

According to an embodiment of the system the means for taking action comprises means for changing the level of the vehicle to a level within the recommended zone, and/or means for adapting the vehicle speed so as to enter into a recommended zone.

According to an embodiment of the system the means for presenting for the operator of the vehicle a recommended level range is arranged to be used for a lower extent than the extent corresponding to said means for changing the level of the vehicle to a level within the recommended zone, and/or the means for adapting the vehicle speed so as to enter into a recommended zone.

According to an embodiment the system comprises means for storing the result of said evaluation of drive comprising the extent of driving outside a recommended zone on board the vehicle and/or means for storing the result of said evaluation of drive comprising the extent of driving outside a recommended zone externally.

The system for evaluating driving of a vehicle taking level of the vehicle into consideration is adapted to perform the methods as set out herein.

The system according to the invention has the advantages according to the corresponding method.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS For a better understanding of the present invention reference is made to the following detailed description when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein like reference characters refer to like parts throughout the several views, and in which: Fig. 1 schematically illustrates a side view of a vehicle according to the present invention; Fig. 2 schematically illustrates different zones for recommended level ranges relative to a normal level for a vehicle based on road type and vehicle speed; Fig. 3 schematically illustrates a system for evaluating driving of a vehicle taking level of the vehicle into consideration according to an embodiment of the present invention; Fig. 4 schematically illustrates a block diagram of a method for evaluating driving of a vehicle taking level of the vehicle into consideration according to an embodiment of the present invention; and Fig. 5 schematically illustrates a computer according to an embodiment of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION Hereinafter the term “link” refers to a communication link which may be a physical connector, such as an optoelectronic communication wire, or a non physical connector such as a wireless connection, for example a radio or microwave link.

Hereinafter the term “level of the vehicle” refers to a certain level of the vehicle body of the vehicle relative to the ground. This corresponds to a certain level of the vehicle body/chassis of the vehicle body relative to the axles of the vehicle. The level of the vehicle is changeable. Changing level of the changing level of the entire vehicle by changing the level of the vehicle body relative to the ground and thus relative to the vehicle axles. Changing level of the vehicle may also comprise different level of the front side and the rear side of the vehicle, changing level of one side of the vehicle, changing level of only a front side of the vehicle, changing level of only a rear side of the vehicle. Changing level of the vehicle may also be referred to as kneeling.

Hereinafter the term “road type” refers to a specific road type. The specific road type is according to an embodiment divided into the roughness of the specific road, e.g. very smooth (e.g. freeway, expressway); smooth (e.g. highway, normal road), rough (country road); very rough (gravelled road) and extremely rough (off-road, i.e. very limited road or no road at all).

Thus, the specific road type may comprise any suitable specific road type. The specific road type comprises according to an embodiment any of: FREEWAY - i.e. a road which is very smooth with limited curvature and a ground facilitating safe driving at relatively higher speeds and low variation in speed limits; EXPRESSWAY - i.e. a road which is very smooth with limited curvature and a ground facilitating safe driving at relatively higher speeds and low variation in speed limits; HIGHWAY/ROAD - i.e. a road which is smooth with more curves and more variation in speed compared to “freeway” and “express way”; COUNTRY ROAD - i.e. a road which is rough with more curves and more variation in speed compared “road” the ground not necessary facilitating as safe driving as for “freeway” and “express way”. Here the ground may be uneven/bumpy, and speed limits are normally lower than for “freeway” and “express way”; GRAVELLED ROAD - i.e. a road which is very rough which may have more curves compared to “road/highway” and also compared to “country road”; and OFF-ROAD i.e. a route which is extremely rough, i.e. very limited road or no road at all. The ground which is of gravel or the like or offroad does not facilitate safe driving. Flere the ground is usually uneven/bumpy, and speed limits are usually low.

According to an embodiment the road types “freeway” and “express way” represent a high quality road type, i.e. a road which is very smooth, in fig. 2 below denoted road type A, the road types “road/highway” represents a medium quality road type which is smooth, below denoted road type B, and road type “country road” represents a bad quality road type which is rough, below denoted road type C. The road type “gravelled road” which is very rough could be denoted road type D, not illustrated in fig. 2, and the road type “offroad” could be denoted road type E, also not illustrated in fig. 2. The road types could of course be defined differently. There could also be further road types. Other properties such as curvature, topography, temperature, weather such as snow, ice, rain and speed limits which could affect the driving properties of the road could be taken into account in defining the road type. .

The term “road type” could in addition to the above reference also comprise determined actual quality of the road so as to determine if the road is of high quality, i.e. road type A, medium quality, i.e. road type B, or bad quality, i.e. road type C.

Hereinafter the term “vehicle configuration” comprises vehicle type such as type of truck/ type of bus, vehicle dimensions such as height and width, axle configuration comprising number of vehicle axles and distance between the axles, ground clearance for the vehicle at normal level.

Hereinafter the term “normal level for the vehicle” refers to a level for the vehicle relative to the ground or to other reference that corresponds to the level for the particular vehicle that is set as a normal level or default level. The normal level for the vehicle is according to an embodiment a calibrated level.

The normal level for the vehicle refers according to an embodiment to the level that for normal driving results in sustainable driving prolonging life expectancy for vehicle components.

Fig. 1 schematically illustrates a vehicle 1 in the form of a truck. The vehicle 1 has a vehicle body 1 a. The vehicle according to this example has a front axle X1 with front wheels and a rear axle X2 with rear wheels, the rear axle according to an embodiment being the drive axle. The level L of the vehicle is changeable by changing the level of L of the vehicle body relative to the road R on which the vehicle is travelling. The vehicle has a level changing functionality for changing the level of the vehicle.

The vehicle 1 could be any suitable vehicle having a level changing functionality.

The vehicle 1 comprises a system for evaluating driving of a vehicle taking level of the vehicle into consideration. The vehicle 1 comprises means for providing the level changing functionality and hence for changing the level L of the vehicle by changing level of only a front side of the vehicle, changing level of only a rear side of the vehicle, and/or changing level of the entire vehicle. The level changing functionality comprises adapting the level L of the vehicle entrance and/or exit relative to the ground of the road R.

The vehicle 1 comprises according to an embodiment an air suspension system comprising air suspension members for providing suspension and for providing a level changing functionality, i.e. changing level of the vehicle. The air suspension members are according to an embodiment comprised in a means for providing a level changing functionality.

The suspensions members comprise according to an embodiment bellows units, a bellows unit being arranged in connection to the respective wheel of the respective axle X1, X2 of the vehicle.

The respective bellows units are situated between the vehicle frame and the respective axles X1, X2, making it possible for the vehicle body 1a of the vehicle 1 to be raised and lowered by regulation of air in bellows units.

The air suspension system further comprises an air valve configuration according to an embodiment of the present invention. The air valve configuration is connected to the bellows units and is adapted to regulating the air pressure in the respective bellows units for providing a level change of the vehicle and hence a level changing functionality.

The level changing functionality of the vehicle may be provided in any suitable way by any suitable means, such as hydropneumatically, electromagnetically, electrically or the like. The suspension system may thus be any suitable suspension system such as a hydropneumatic suspension system, an electromagnetic suspension system, an electrical suspension system or the like.

The vehicle 1 described above in relation to fig. 1 has a front axle X1 and a powered rear axle X2 just as a schematic example. The vehicle according to the present invention could have any suitable number of axles. Thus, the invention regarding evaluating driving of a vehicle taking level of the vehicle into consideration is applicable on any suitable vehicle, such a vehicle having for example a front axle, a rear axle and a tag axle, or two-wheel or four-wheel drive; two front axles, a powered axle and a tag axle; or vehicles with further axles, e.g. ten or twelve, one or more of them being powered.

Fig. 2 schematically illustrates different zones for recommended level ranges relative to a normal level for a vehicle based on road type and vehicle speed.

The zones for recommended level ranges relative to a normal level correspond according to an embodiment to a specific vehicle/specific vehicle type and/or a specific vehicle dimensions, aerodynamics, etc.

In the example illustrated in fig. 2 three zones are shown, a zone for a road type A which represents a very smooth road, e.g. a freeway or an express way, a zone for a road type B which represents a smooth road such as a highway/normal road, and a zone for a road type C which represents a rough road, e.g. a country road.

The level ranges available for the vehicle are a range 1 varying from 20 mm to - 20 mm, a range 2 varying from 20 mm to 60 mm, a range 3 varying between 60 mm and 100 mm, a range 4 varying from - 20 mm to - 60 mm and range 5 varying between - 60 mm and - 100 mm. There is a normal level range for the vehicle which is 0 mm. The level ranges 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 thus refers to the normal level range. The ranges are here symmetrically illustrated but they do not need to be symmetrical but could differ.

For the road type A the vehicle may at low speeds up to about 40 km/h be within the range 3, up to /- 80 mm, within range 2 for speeds between about 40 and 115 km/h, and within range 1 for speeds between about 115 and 130 km/h.

For the road type B the vehicle may up to about 70 km/h be within the range 2, and within range 1 for speeds between about 70 and 100 km/h.

For the road type C the vehicle may only be in range one and only up to about 70 km/h.

The road type together with the speed of the vehicle defines a zone with recommended level of the vehicle. Road type A defines a zone ZA, road type B defines a zone ZB and road type C defines a zone ZC.

The lower the speed the higher level is allowed within the respective zone.

In order to evaluate driving of a vehicle taking level of the vehicle into consideration the level and speed of the vehicle are determined. It is then determined whether the current level of the vehicle is within a range corresponding to a recommended zone based on the thus determined speed and road type. Hereby it is determined whether the vehicle is driven in within a recommended zone or an adverse zone. If the vehicle is being driven in an adverse zone it may be considered as bad driving behaviour and measures may be taken so as to facilitate obtaining recommended level ranges. Such measures may be presenting for the operator of the vehicle that the current level of the vehicle is outside the recommended zone and also to present the recommended level range. A presentation for the operator of the vehicle that the current level of the vehicle is outside the recommended zone may be a warning. Such measures may also be to automatically changing the level of the vehicle to a level within the recommended zone, and/or adapting the vehicle speed so as to enter into a recommended zone.

The result of the evaluation of driving may be stored internally, i.e. on board the vehicle, and/or externally so as to facilitate having access to the history of driving comprising driving behaviour with regard to the level and the extent of driving outside a recommended zone.

Driving behaviour with regard to the level of the vehicle may hereby be improved. Hereby the life expectancy of vehicle components affected by driving the vehicle with a level outside such a zone will be prolonged in that a more correct driving behaviour with regard to level of the vehicle, i.e. within a recommended zone, is facilitated. Thus, more sustainable driving is facilitated.

According to an embodiment, not shown in fig. 2, the characteristics for defining the different zones for recommended level ranges relative to the normal level for the vehicle, in addition to vehicle speed and road type, further comprises at least one of the following: vehicle weight, aerodynamic properties, vehicle configuration, sustainability and wear of vehicle components. Aerodynamic properties comprises comprise the shape of the vehicle including the shape of the undercarriage of the vehicle, where generally lowering of the level of the vehicle results in reduced air resistance. The term “handling” here refers to handling of the vehicle by the operator of the vehicle comprising manoeuvres such as evasive actions.

Fig. 3 schematically illustrates a system for evaluating driving of a vehicle taking level of the vehicle into consideration according to an embodiment of the present invention.

Different zones for recommended level ranges relative to a normal level for the vehicle based on characteristics comprising road type and vehicle speed are defined. The zones may be defined in accordance with the exemplary embodiment in fig. 2.

According to an embodiment the characteristics for defining the different zones for recommended level ranges relative to the normal level for the vehicle further comprises at least one of the following: vehicle weight, aerodynamic properties, comfort, safety, handling, vehicle configuration, sustainability and wear of vehicle components.

The system I comprises an electronic control unit 100.

The system I comprises means 110 for determining the level of the vehicle relative to a normal level for the vehicle. The means 110 for determining the level of the vehicle relative to a normal level for the vehicle comprises at least one level sensor unit 112.

According to an embodiment the vehicle for which the system I is used comprises an air suspension system having bellows units in connection to the respective wheels of the vehicle. The bellows units are connected to an air valve configuration configured to regulate the pressure in the respective bellows unit for providing the kneeling function. The means 110 for determining the level of the vehicle relative to a normal level for the vehicle comprises means 114 for determining the pressure and pressure change in the respective bellows unit of the air suspension system so as to determine level and level change of the vehicle. The means 114 for determining pressure and a possible pressure change comprises at least one pressure sensor unit for the respective bellows unit.

The means 110 for determining level of the vehicle relative to a normal level for the vehicle may also comprise determining status of valves configured to regulate the bellows units for providing the kneeling function for kneeling the vehicle.

The system I comprises means 120 for determining the current speed of the vehicle. The means 120 for determining the current speed of the vehicle may comprise any suitable means for detecting the vehicle speed. The means for determining the current speed of the vehicle comprises the speedometer of the vehicle.

The system I comprises means 130 for determining the type of road on which the vehicle is travelling.

The means 130 for determining the type of road on which the vehicle is travelling comprises road detection means 132 for detecting the road type. The road detection means 132 may comprise any suitable means for detecting the road type. The road detection means 132 comprises according to an embodiment one or more camera units for detecting road characteristics, road signs or the like so as to determine the road type. The road detection means 132 may comprise a detector unit configured to detect the nature/character/quality of the road.

The means 130 for determining the type of road on which the vehicle is travelling comprises road navigation means 134. The road navigation means 134 comprises a map information unit 134a comprising map data comprising information of road along the route of the vehicle comprising information of specific road types such as freeway, express way, normal road, country road, gravelled road etc. The road navigation means 134 comprises according to an embodiment means 134b for determining the position of the vehicle. The means 134b for determining the position of the vehicle comprises according to an embodiment a global positioning system, GPS, for continuously determining the current position of the vehicle so as to facilitate determining the specific road type on which the vehicle is travelling.

The system I comprises means 140 for determining whether the current level of the vehicle is within a range corresponding to a recommended zone based on the thus determined speed and road type. The road navigation means 134 is according to an embodiment configured to provide information such as information regarding height of bridges, tunnels, roofs of gas stations, garage, road constructions, or the like.

The means 140 for determining whether the current level of the vehicle is within a range corresponding to a recommended zone comprises means 142 for determining the current recommended zone. The means 142 for determining the current recommended zone is arranged to process data representing current vehicle speed and data representing current road type so as to determine the current recommended zone. The means 140 for determining whether the current level of the vehicle is within a range corresponding to a recommended zone comprises means 144 for comparing the current level of the vehicle with the current recommended zone so as to determine whether the current level of the vehicle is within a range corresponding to the thus determined recommended zone.

The means 140 for determining whether the current level of the vehicle is within a range corresponding to a recommended zone is according to an embodiment comprised in the electronic control unit 100.

The system I comprises means 150 for evaluating the level of the vehicle during drive so as to determine if and to what extent the level of the vehicle has been outside a recommended zone.

The means 150 for evaluating the level of the vehicle during drive so as to determine if and to what extent the level of the vehicle has been outside a recommended zone comprises means 152 for determining the number of times the vehicle has been outside a recommended zone within in a certain period of time.

The means 150 for evaluating the level of the vehicle during drive so as to determine if and to what extent the level of the vehicle has been outside a recommended zone comprises means 154 for determining, for each time the vehicle was outside a recommended zone, for how long time the vehicle was outside the recommended zone.

The means 150 for evaluating the level of the vehicle during drive so as to determine if and to what extent the level of the vehicle has been outside a recommended zone comprises means 150a for determining whether the extent the level of the vehicle has been outside a recommended zone exceeds a predetermined value. Said extent comprises the number of times the level of the vehicle has been outside the recommended zone and for how long time the level of the vehicle was outside the recommended zone for each time it happened.

The system I comprises means 160 for taking action so as to facilitate obtaining recommended level ranges if the level of the vehicle has been outside a recommended zone exceeding a determined extent.

The means 160 for taking action comprises means 162 for presenting for the operator of the vehicle that the current level of the vehicle is outside the recommended zone. The means 162 for presenting for the operator of the vehicle that the current level of the vehicle is outside the recommended zone comprises visual means 162a for visual presentation. The means 162 for presenting for the operator of the vehicle that the current level of the vehicle is outside the recommended zone comprises sound means 162b for audible presentation such as an alarm, a voice message or the like.

The means 160 for taking action comprises means 164 for presenting for the operator of the vehicle a recommended level range. The means 164 for presenting for the operator of the vehicle a recommended level range comprises visual means 164a for visual presentation. The means 164 for presenting for the operator of the vehicle a recommended level range comprises sound means 164b for audible presentation such as an alarm, a voice message or the like.

The means 160 for taking action comprises according to an embodiment means 166 for changing the level of the vehicle to a level within the recommended zone. The means 166 for changing the level of the vehicle to a level within the recommended zone comprises any suitable means for changing the level of the vehicle. Where the vehicle is equipped with an air suspension system having bellows units the means 166 for changing the level of the vehicle to a level within the recommended zone comprises means for regulating the pressure in the bellows units so as to change the level of the vehicle. The means for regulating the pressure in the bellows units comprises valve members configured to regulate pressurised air distributed from an air pressure system of the vehicle. The means 166 for changing the level of the vehicle to a level within the recommended zone is according to an embodiment performed automatically.

The means 160 for taking action comprises according to an embodiment means 168 for adapting the vehicle speed so as to enter into a recommended zone. The means 168 for adapting the vehicle speed so as to enter into a recommended zone according to an embodiment comprises or is comprised in the cruise control unit of the vehicle. The means 168 for adapting the vehicle speed so as to enter into a recommended zone is according to an embodiment performed automatically.

The means 160 for taking action according to the means 162, the means 164, means 166 and means 168 may according to an embodiment be set by the operator if and to what extent they are configured to be activated.

The means 160 is according to an embodiment configured to, by means of information from the road navigation means 134 when a predetermined route is set, suggest the most suitable limitation for driving in the recommended/suitable zone.

The means for presenting for the operator of the vehicle a recommended level range is arranged to be used for a lower extent than the extent corresponding to said means for changing the level of the vehicle to a level within the recommended zone, and/or adapting the vehicle speed so as to enter into a recommended zone. Hereby unnecessary control of the vehicle is avoided. Thus, automatic control of the level is only activated when it is really necessary, thus avoiding annoying the operator of the vehicle.

According to an embodiment the means for presenting for the operator of the vehicle a recommended level range is arranged to be used if the extent the level of the vehicle has been outside a recommended zone does not exceed a predetermined value, which according to an embodiment is determined by the means 150a as described above.

According to an embodiment the means for changing the level of the vehicle to a level within the recommended zone, and/or adapting the vehicle speed so as to enter into a recommended zone is arranged to be used if the extent the level of the vehicle has been outside a recommended zone exceeds the predetermined value, which according to an embodiment is determined by the means 150a as described above.

According to an embodiment if the extent the level of the vehicle has been outside a recommended zone increases the action taken will be escalated from a warning, e.g. by presenting to the operator of the vehicle according to the means 162 and/or means 164 to a specific action, e.g. by changing level and/or speed according to the means 166 and/or means 168. Further actions as a result of escalation may be controlling, i.e. lowering, the acceleration, changing the damping of the vehicle, changing gear of the vehicle or the like. Further actions could be to keeping the vehicle within the correct zone strategy by predicting the route by means of map data and positioning means such as a global positioning system, GPS, e.g. by thus determining that a roundabout is approaching and thereby only prioritising a reduction of vehicle speed as the road on which the vehicle is travelling is very smooth after the roundabout, or only prioritising level change/lowering of level as the speed then may be maintained.

The system I comprises means 170 for storing the result of said evaluation of drive comprising the extent of driving outside a recommended zone on board the vehicle.

The storage means 170 on board the vehicle may be any suitable internal storage means for storing the result of said evaluation of drive comprising the extent of driving outside a recommended zone such as an electronic control unit of another system of the vehicle. The internal storage means 170 on board the vehicle is according to an embodiment comprised in the electronic control unit 100.

The system I comprises means 180 for storing the result of said evaluation of drive comprising the extent of driving outside a recommended zone externally.

The external storage means 180 may be any suitable storage means for storing the result of said evaluation of drive comprising the extent of driving outside a recommended zone such as a global data base, an external server unit or the like. Such external storage means 180 may be accessible for relevant users, e.g. owner of the passenger transport vehicle. The external storage means 180 may be a portable unit such as a smart phone, a portable computer, a tablet, or other portable storage means.

The storing of the result of said evaluation of drive comprising the extent of driving outside a recommended zone in the internal storage means 170 and/or external storage means 180 comprises according to an embodiment storing count of number of times with a counter and/or the time for the driving outside a recommended zone by means of a specific time stamp for each time it occurred. According to an embodiment a diagnostic trouble code (DTC) is configured to be set. Further, variables such as vehicle speed, weight, position and level may be stored.

The system I comprises according to an embodiment means 190 for determining the weight of the vehicle. The means 190 for determining the vehicle weight may comprise any suitable detection means.

The system I comprises according to an embodiment means 200 for determining the aerodynamic properties of the vehicle. The means 200 for determining the aerodynamic properties of the vehicle comprises detector means for detecting position of air guiding devices for guiding air for reducing air resistance.

The system I comprises according to an embodiment means 210 for determining comfort level. The means 210 for determining comfort level comprises means for determining a set mode for degree of comfort comprising damping settings and suspension settings of the suspension system of the vehicle. Modes could be comfort mode with high degree of comfort and sport mode with lower degree of comfort relative to the comfort mode.

The system I comprises according to an embodiment means 220 for determining safety level.

The system I comprises according to an embodiment means 230 for determining vehicle configuration. The means 230 for determining vehicle configuration comprises means for identifying the vehicle type, which may be stored in storage means of the vehicle and/or externally. The means 230 for determining vehicle configuration comprises means for determining vehicle dimensions such as height and width, the means according to an embodiment comprising one or more camera units. The vehicle dimensions are according to an embodiment stored in storage means in the vehicle and/or externally.

The system I comprises according to an embodiment means 240 for determining sustainability and wear of vehicle components. The means 240 for determining sustainability and wear of vehicle components may comprise any suitable sensor member for sensing wear of vehicle components.

The system I comprises according to an embodiment means 250 for establishing contact between the vehicle and a vehicle-to-infrastructure communication arrangement V2I. The vehicle-to-infrastructure communication arrangement V2I is configured to provide information such as information regarding height of bridges, tunnels, roofs of gas stations, garage, road constructions, or the like.

According to an embodiment, information regarding certain vehicle related characteristics for defining the different zones for recommended level ranges relative to the normal level for the vehicle is comprised in the electronic control unit 100. According to an embodiment the vehicle configuration for the vehicle is stored in and retrievable from the electronic control unit 100. According to an embodiment the aerodynamic properties of the vehicle are stored in and retrievable from the electronic control unit 100. According to an embodiment a set comfort level or comfort mode for the vehicle is stored in and retrievable from the electronic control unit 100. According to an embodiment a set safety level or safety mode for the vehicle is stored in and retrievable from the electronic control unit 100.

The electronic control unit 100 is operably connected to the means 110 for determining the level of the vehicle relative to a normal level for the vehicle via a link 10. The electronic control unit 100 is via the link 10 arranged to receive a signal from the means 110 representing data for current level of the vehicle.

The electronic control unit 100 is operably connected to the at least one level sensor unit 112 via a link 12. The electronic control unit 100 is via the link 12 arranged to receive a signal from the at least one level sensor unit 112 representing level data for current level of the vehicle relative to a normal level for the vehicle.

The electronic control unit 100 is operably connected to the means 114 for determining the pressure and pressure change in the respective bellows unit of the air suspension system via a link 14. The electronic control unit 100 is via the link 14 arranged to receive a signal from the means 114 representing pressure data for current pressure and possible pressure change in bellows units of the vehicle corresponding to a certain level of the vehicle relative to a normal level for the vehicle.

The electronic control unit 100 is operably connected to the means 120 for determining the current speed of the vehicle via a link 20. The electronic control unit 100 is via the link 20 arranged to receive a signal from the means 120 representing speed data for current speed of the vehicle.

The electronic control unit 100 is operably connected to the means 130 for determining the type of road on which the vehicle is travelling via a link 30. The electronic control unit 100 is via the link 30 arranged to receive a signal from the means 130 representing data for the type of road on which the vehicle is currently travelling.

The electronic control unit 100 is operably connected to the means 132 for detecting the road type via a link 32. The electronic control unit 100 is via the link 32 arranged to receive a signal from the means 130 representing data for detected road type.

The electronic control unit 100 is operably connected to the navigation means 134 via a link 34. The electronic control unit 100 is via the link 34 arranged to receive a signal from the navigation means 134 representing navigation data comprising map data and position data for the road type on which the vehicle is currently travelling.

The electronic control unit 100 is operably connected to the means 140 for determining whether the current level of the vehicle is within a range corresponding to a recommended zone based on the thus determined speed and road type via a link 40. The electronic control unit 100 is via the link 40 arranged to receive a signal from the means 140 representing data for correspondence of current level to recommended zone.

The electronic control unit 100 is operably connected to the means 142 for determining the current recommended zone via a link 42. The electronic control unit 100 is via the link 42 arranged to receive a signal from the means 142 representing data for recommended zone.

The electronic control unit 100 is operably connected to the means 144 for comparing the current level of the vehicle with the current recommended zone via a link 44. The electronic control unit 100 is via the link 44 arranged to receive a signal from the means 144 representing data for comparison of current level of the vehicle and current recommended zone.

The electronic control unit 100 is operably connected to the means 150 for evaluating the level of the vehicle during drive so as to determine if and to what extent the level of the vehicle has been outside a recommended zone via a link 50. The electronic control unit 100 is via the link 50 arranged to receive a signal from the means 150 representing evaluation data for if and to what extent the level of the vehicle has been outside a recommended zone.

The electronic control unit 100 is operably connected to the means 152 for determining the number of times the vehicle has been outside a recommended zone within in a certain period of time via a link 52. The electronic control unit 100 is via the link 52 arranged to receive a signal from the means 152 representing data for number of times the vehicle has been outside a recommended zone.

The electronic control unit 100 is operably connected to the means 154 for determining, for each time the vehicle was outside a recommended zone, for how long time the vehicle was outside the recommended zone via a link 54. The electronic control unit 100 is via the link 54 arranged to receive a signal from the means 154 representing data for how long time the vehicle has been outside the recommended zone.

The electronic control unit 100 is operably connected to the means 160 for taking action so as to facilitate obtaining recommended level ranges if the level of the vehicle has been outside a recommended zone exceeding a determined extent via a link 60. The electronic control unit 100 is via the link 60 arranged to send a signal to the means 160 representing data for if and to what extent the level of the vehicle has been outside a recommended zone.

The electronic control unit 100 is operably connected to the means 162 for presenting for the operator of the vehicle that the current level of the vehicle is outside the recommended zone via a link 62. The electronic control unit 100 is via the link 62 arranged to send a signal to the means 162 representing data for presenting for the operator of the vehicle, visually and/or audibly, that the current level of the vehicle is outside the recommended zone.

The electronic control unit 100 is operably connected to the means 164 for presenting for the operator of the vehicle a recommended level range via a link 64. The electronic control unit 100 is via the link 64 arranged to send a signal to the means 164 representing data for presenting for the operator of the vehicle, visually and/or audibly, a recommended level range.

The electronic control unit 100 is operably connected to the means 166 for changing the level of the vehicle to a level within the recommended zone via a link 66. The electronic control unit 100 is via the link 66 arranged to send a signal to the means 166 representing data for changing the level of the vehicle to a level within the recommended zone.

The electronic control unit 100 is operably connected to the means 168 for adapting the vehicle speed so as to enter into a recommended zone via a link 68. The electronic control unit 100 is via the link 68 arranged to send a signal to the means 168 representing data for adapting the vehicle speed so as to enter into a recommended zone.

The electronic control unit 100 is operably connected to the internal storage means 170 for storing the result of said evaluation of drive comprising the extent of driving outside a recommended zone on board the vehicle via a link 70. The electronic control unit 100 is via the link 70 arranged to send a signal to the means 170 representing data for result of said evaluation of drive comprising the extent of driving outside a recommended zone.

The electronic control unit 100 is operably connected to the external storage means 180 for storing the result of said evaluation of drive comprising the extent of driving outside a recommended zone externally via a link 80. The electronic control unit 100 is via the link 80 arranged to send a signal to the means 180 representing data for result of said evaluation of drive comprising the extent of driving outside a recommended zone.

The electronic control unit 100 is operably connected to the means 190 for determining the weight of the vehicle via a link 90. The electronic control unit 100 is via the link 90 arranged to receive a signal from the means 190 representing data for vehicle weight.

The electronic control unit 100 is operably connected to the means 200 for determining the aerodynamic properties of the vehicle via a link 200a. The electronic control unit 100 is via the link 200a arranged to receive a signal from the means 200 representing data for aerodynamic properties of the vehicle.

The electronic control unit 100 is operably connected to the means 210 for determining comfort level via a link 210a. The electronic control unit 100 is via the link 210a arranged to receive a signal from the means 210 representing data for comfort level.

The electronic control unit 100 is operably connected to the means 220 for determining safety level via a link 220a. The electronic control unit 100 is via the link 220a arranged to receive a signal from the means 220 representing data for safety level.

The electronic control unit 100 is operably connected to the means 230 for determining vehicle configuration via a link 230a. The electronic control unit 100 is via the link 230a arranged to receive a signal from the means 230 representing data for vehicle configuration.

The electronic control unit 100 is operably connected to the means 240 for determining sustainability and wear of vehicle components via a link 240a. The electronic control unit 100 is via the link 240a arranged to receive a signal from the means 240 representing data for sustainability and wear of vehicle components. Data for sustainability and wear could comprise service intervals, latest workshop visit, replaced components, estimated sustainability/ life expectancy. A reduced life expectancy could be determined if the number of times the vehicle has been outside a recommended zone within in a certain period of time obtained from the means 152 and for how long time obtained from the means 154 exceeds a certain limit, which could result in a DTC when the vehicle would be determined to be hazardous to drive.

The electronic control unit 100 is operably connected to the means 250 for establishing contact between the vehicle and a vehicle-to-infrastructure communication arrangement V2I via a link 250a. The electronic control unit 100 is via the link 250a arranged to receive a signal from the means 250 representing communication data comprising traffic information.

Fig. 3 schematically illustrates a block diagram of a method for evaluating driving of a vehicle taking level of the vehicle into consideration according to an embodiment of the present invention. Different zones for recommended level ranges relative to a normal level for the vehicle based on characteristics comprising road type and vehicle speed are defined.

According to the embodiment the method for evaluating driving of a vehicle taking level of the vehicle into consideration comprises step S1. In this step the level of the vehicle relative to a normal level for the vehicle is determined.

According to the embodiment the method for evaluating driving of a vehicle taking level of the vehicle into consideration comprises step S2. In this step the current speed of the vehicle is determined.

According to the embodiment the method for evaluating driving of a vehicle taking level of the vehicle into consideration comprises step S3. In this step the type of road on which the vehicle is travelling is determined.

According to the embodiment the method for evaluating driving of a vehicle taking level of the vehicle into consideration comprises step S4. In this step it is determined, based on the thus determined speed and road type, whether the current level of the vehicle is within a range corresponding to a recommended zone.

According to an embodiment of the method the characteristics for defining said different zones for recommended level ranges relative to said normal level for the vehicle further comprises at least one of the following: vehicle weight, aerodynamic properties, comfort, safety, handling, vehicle configuration, sustainability and wear of vehicle components.

According to an embodiment the method comprises the step of evaluating the level of the vehicle during drive so as to determine if and to what extent the level of the vehicle has been outside a recommended zone.

According to an embodiment the method comprises the step of taking action so as to facilitate obtaining recommended level ranges if the level of the vehicle has been outside a recommended zone exceeding a determined extent.

According to an embodiment of the method the step of taking action comprises presenting for the operator of the vehicle that the current level of the vehicle is outside the recommended zone.

According to an embodiment of the method the step of taking action comprises presenting for the operator of the vehicle a recommended level range.

According to an embodiment of the method the step of taking action comprises changing the level of the vehicle to a level within the recommended zone, and/or adapting the vehicle speed so as to enter into a recommended zone.

According to an embodiment of the method said action of presenting for the operator of the vehicle a recommended level range is used for a lower extent than the extent corresponding to said action of changing the level of the vehicle to a level within the recommended zone, and/or adapting the vehicle speed so as to enter into a recommended zone.

According to an embodiment the method comprises the step of storing, on board the vehicle and/or externally, the result of said evaluation of drive comprising the extent of driving outside a recommended zone.

With reference to figure 5, a diagram of an apparatus 500 is shown. The control unit 100 described with reference to fig. 3 may according to an embodiment comprise apparatus 500. Apparatus 500 comprises a non-volatile memory 520, a data processing device 510 and a read/write memory 550. Non-volatile memory 520 has a first memory portion 530 wherein a computer program, such as an operating system, is stored for controlling the function of apparatus 500. Further, apparatus 500 comprises a bus controller, a serial communication port, l/O-means, an A/D-converter, a time date entry and transmission unit, an event counter and an interrupt controller (not shown). Non-volatile memory 520 also has a second memory portion 540.

A computer program P is provided comprising routines for evaluating driving of a vehicle taking level of the vehicle into consideration according to an embodiment of the present invention. Different zones for recommended level ranges relative to a normal level for the vehicle based on characteristics comprising road type and vehicle speed are defined. The program P comprises routines for determining the level of the vehicle relative to a normal level for the vehicle. The program P comprises routines for determining the current speed of the vehicle. The program P comprises routines for determining the type of road on which the vehicle is travelling. The program P comprises routines for, based on the thus determined speed and road type, determining whether the current level of the vehicle is within a range corresponding to a recommended zone. The program P comprises routines for evaluating the level of the vehicle during drive so as to determine if and to what extent the level of the vehicle has been outside a recommended zone. The program P comprises routines for taking action so as to facilitate obtaining recommended level ranges if the level of the vehicle has been outside a recommended zone exceeding a determined extent. Taking action comprises presenting for the operator of the vehicle that the current level of the vehicle is outside the recommended zone. Taking action comprises presenting for the operator of the vehicle a recommended level range. Taking action comprises changing the level of the vehicle to a level within the recommended zone, and/or adapting the vehicle speed so as to enter into a recommended zone. The program P comprises routines for The program P comprises routines for using the action of presenting for the operator of the vehicle a recommended level range for a lower extent than the extent corresponding to said action of changing the level of the vehicle to a level within the recommended zone, and/or adapting the vehicle speed so as to enter into a recommended zone. The program P comprises routines for The program P comprises routines for storing, on board the vehicle and/or externally, the result of said evaluation of drive comprising the extent of driving outside a recommended zone. The computer program P may be stored in an executable manner or in a compressed condition in a separate memory 560 and/or in read/write memory 550.

When it is stated that data processing device 510 performs a certain function it should be understood that data processing device 510 performs a certain part of the program which is stored in separate memory 560, or a certain part of the program which is stored in read/write memory 550.

Data processing device 510 may communicate with a data communications port 599 by means of a data bus 515. Non-volatile memory 520 is adapted for communication with data processing device 510 via a data bus 512. Separate memory 560 is adapted for communication with data processing device 510 via a data bus 511. Read/write memory 550 is adapted for communication with data processing device 510 via a data bus 514. To the data communications port 599 e.g. the links connected to the control units 100 may be connected.

When data is received on data port 599 it is temporarily stored in second memory portion 540. When the received input data has been temporarily stored, data processing device 510 is set up to perform execution of code in a manner described above. The signals received on data port 599 can be used by apparatus 500 for determining the level of the vehicle relative to a normal level for the vehicle. The signals received on data port 599 can be used by apparatus 500 for the current speed of the vehicle. The signals received on data port 599 can be used by apparatus 500 for determining the type of road on which the vehicle is travelling. The signals received on data port 599 can be used by apparatus 500 for, based on the thus determined speed and road type, determining whether the current level of the vehicle is within a range corresponding to a recommended zone. The signals received on data port 599 can be used by apparatus 500 for evaluating the level of the vehicle during drive so as to determine if and to what extent the level of the vehicle has been outside a recommended zone. The signals received on data port 599 can be used by apparatus 500 for taking action so as to facilitate obtaining recommended level ranges if the level of the vehicle has been outside a recommended zone exceeding a determined extent. Taking action comprises presenting for the operator of the vehicle that the current level of the vehicle is outside the recommended zone. Taking action comprises presenting for the operator of the vehicle a recommended level range. Taking action comprises changing the level of the vehicle to a level within the recommended zone, and/or adapting the vehicle speed so as to enter into a recommended zone. The signals received on data port 599 can be used by apparatus 500 for using the action of presenting for the operator of the vehicle a recommended level range for a lower extent than the extent corresponding to said action of changing the level of the vehicle to a level within the recommended zone, and/or adapting the vehicle speed so as to enter into a recommended zone. The signals received on data port 599 can be used by apparatus 500 for storing, on board the vehicle and/or externally, the result of said evaluation of drive comprising the extent of driving outside a recommended zone.

Parts of the methods described herein can be performed by apparatus 500 by means of data processing device 510 running the program stored in separate memory 560 or read/write memory 550. When apparatus 500 runs the program, parts of the methods described herein are executed.

The foregoing description of the preferred embodiments of the present invention has been provided for the purposes of illustration and description. It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise forms disclosed. Obviously, many modifications and variations will be apparent to practitioners skilled in the art. The embodiments were chosen and described in order to best explain the principles of the invention and its practical applications, thereby enabling others skilled in the art to understand the invention for various embodiments and with the various modifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated.

Claims

1. A method for evaluating driving of a vehicle (1) taking level (L) of the vehicle into consideration, comprising the step of determining (S1) the level of the vehicle relative to a normal level for the vehicle, characterized by defining different zones (ZA, ZB, ZC) for recommended level ranges relative to a normal level for the vehicle based on characteristics comprising road type (A, B, C) and vehicle speed, the method comprising the steps of: - determining (S2) the current speed of the vehicle; - determining (S3) the type of road on which the vehicle is travelling; and, - based on the thus determined speed and road type, determining (S4) whether the current level of the vehicle is within a range corresponding to a recommended zone - storing, on board the vehicle and/or externally, the result of said evaluation of drive comprising the extent of driving outside a recommended zone.

2. A method according to claim 1, wherein the characteristics for defining said different zones for recommended level ranges relative to said normal level for the vehicle further comprises at least one of the following: vehicle weight, aerodynamic properties, comfort, safety, handling, vehicle configuration, sustainability and wear of vehicle components.

3. A method according to any preceding claims, comprising the step of evaluating the level of the vehicle during drive so as to determine if and to what extent the level of the vehicle has been outside a recommended zone.

4. A method according to claim 3, comprising the step of taking action so as to facilitate obtaining recommended level ranges if the level of the vehicle has been outside a recommended zone exceeding a determined extent.

5. A method according to claim 4, wherein the step of taking action comprises presenting for the operator of the vehicle that the current level of the vehicle is outside the recommended zone.

6. A method according to claim 4 or 5, wherein the step of taking action comprises presenting for the operator of the vehicle a recommended level range.

7. A method according to any of claims 4-6, wherein the step of taking action comprises changing the level of the vehicle to a level within the recommended zone, and/or adapting the vehicle speed so as to enter into a recommended zone.

8. A method according to claim 4 or 5, wherein said action of presenting for the operator of the vehicle a recommended level range is used for a lower extent than the extent corresponding to said action of changing the level of the vehicle to a level within the recommended zone, and/or adapting the vehicle speed so as to enter into a recommended zone.

9. A system (I) for evaluating driving of a vehicle (1) taking level of the vehicle into consideration, comprising means (110) for determining the level of the vehicle relative to a normal level for the vehicle, characterized in that different zones (ZA, ZB, ZC) for recommended level ranges relative to a normal level for the vehicle based on characteristics comprising road type (A, B, C) and vehicle speed are arranged to be defined, the system comprising means (120) for determining the current speed of the vehicle; means (130) for determining the type of road on which the vehicle is travelling; and, means (140) for determining whether the current level (L) of the vehicle (1) is within a range corresponding to a recommended zone based on the thus determined speed and road type; and, means (170) for storing the result of said evaluation of drive comprising the extent of driving outside a recommended zone on board the vehicle and/or means (180) for storing the result of said evaluation of drive comprising the extent of driving outside a recommended zone externally.

10. A system according to claim 9, wherein the characteristics for defining said different zones for recommended level ranges relative to said normal level for the vehicle further comprises at least one of the following: vehicle weight, aerodynamic properties, comfort, safety, handling, vehicle configuration, sustainability and wear of vehicle components.

11. A system according to claim 9 or 10, comprising means (150) for evaluating the level of the vehicle during drive so as to determine if and to what extent the level of the vehicle has been outside a recommended zone.

12. A system according to claim 11, comprising means (160) for taking action so as to facilitate obtaining recommended level ranges if the level of the vehicle has been outside a recommended zone exceeding a determined extent.

13. A system according to claim 12, wherein the means (160) for taking action comprises means (162) for presenting for the operator of the vehicle that the current level of the vehicle is outside the recommended zone.

14. A system according to claim 12 or 13, wherein the means (160) for taking action comprises means (164) for presenting for the operator of the vehicle a recommended level range.

15. A system according to any of claims 12-14, wherein the means (160) for taking action comprises means (166) for changing the level of the vehicle to a level within the recommended zone, and/or means (168) for adapting the vehicle speed so as to enter into a recommended zone.

16. A system according to claim 12 or 13, wherein the means (164) for presenting for the operator of the vehicle a recommended level range is arranged to be used for a lower extent than the extent corresponding to said means (166) for changing the level of the vehicle to a level within the recommended zone, and/or the means (168) for adapting the vehicle speed so as to enter into a recommended zone.

17. A vehicle (1) comprising a system (I) according to any of claims 9-16.

18. A computer program (P) for evaluating driving of a vehicle taking level of the vehicle into consideration, said computer program (P) comprising program code which, when run on an electronic control unit (100) or another computer (500) connected to the electronic control unit (100), causes the electronic control unit to perform the steps according to claim 1-8.

19. A computer program product comprising a digital storage medium storing the computer program according to claim 18.