SE542231C2

SE542231C2 - Method and system for locking at least one door of a bus

Info

Publication number: SE542231C2
Application number: SE1651276A
Authority: SE
Inventors: Catharina Sundkvist
Original assignee: Scania Cv Ab
Priority date: 2016-09-29
Filing date: 2016-09-29
Publication date: 2020-03-17
Also published as: SE1651276A1; DE102017008738A1

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a method (400) for locking at least one door of a bus. The method comprises the step of determining (410) whether an automatic locking function should be enabled based on at least one first pre-determined criterion. The method further comprises the step of activating (420, 430) an automatic locking function of the bus if at least one second pre-determined criterion is fulfilled and if the automatic locking function is enabled. The present disclosure further relates to a system for locking at least one door of a bus, to a bus, to a computer program and to a computer program product.

Description

Method and system for locking at least one door of a bus TECHNICAL FIELD The present invention relates to a method and a system for locking at least one door of a bus. The present invention also relates to a bus, a computer program and a computer program product.

BACKGROUND ART When buses are travelling, there is a risk for robbery. Intruders from the outside might enter the bus and rob passengers and/or the bus driver. Especially when travelling at low speed or when standing still, persons from the outside may try to open a door of the bus to get inside for robbery. Travelling at low speed or standing still may for example happen due to traffic jams, red traffic lights, closed railway crossing gates, or the like.

A similar problem exists for cars. A nowadays quite common solution to the problem is to lock the doors of car once the car speed exceeds a pre-determined low threshold after the driver has started the engine. The doors are then usually kept locked until anyone from the inside of the car tries to open them. To transfer this solution to buses is, however, problematic. Firstly, bus doors are usually operated by air supply and kept locked during travel by air supply. This is in contrast to car doors which are usually manually closed and/opened. These air supplied bus doors are possible to open from the outside, for example with an emergency button, with a crow bar, or also only by hand in case there is a pressure loss in the air supply system.

Secondly, locking bus doors takes time and can sum up to a considerably amount of time in case the bus has many doors. Further, bus doors are usually opened more frequently than car doors, so that the time issue might sum up, even if done automatically. Beside this, a locking of a bus door, if done automatically, is energy consuming. This energy is usually provided by a battery aboard the bus, and locking many doors repeatedly in short time intervals can result in emptying the bus battery during driving.

There is thus a need to provide a locking of a bus door in an advantageous way.

Some documents describing locking of vehicle doors are: DE102013206197 describes a method for controlling a lock of a vehicle door. Depending on a crime risk different levels of locking are applied.

US20090248254 discloses a system and a method for a locking arrangement at a vehicle. Doors are locked and unlocked depending on the area where the vehicle is situated.

JP2009079418 discloses a system for a vehicle which locks doors depending on the area where the vehicle is situated.

US20150332530 discloses a control arrangement for locking a vehicle door at a certain moment of time. A locking of the door(s) is dependent on whether a person is close to the vehicle.

DE102012022877 describes a method for locking doors of a vehicle. The doors are automatically locked a certain time after the vehicle has started moving. This time is adjustable. Due to the locking it is prevented that unwanted persons enter the vehicle.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION It is an objective of the present disclosure to provide a method, a system, a computer program, and a computer program product for locking of a bus door in an advantageous way.

It is an objective of the present disclosure to provide an alternative method, an alternative system, an alternative computer program, and an alternative computer program product for locking of a bus door.

At least some of the objectives are achieved by a method for locking at least one door of a bus. The method comprises the step of determining whether an automatic locking function should be enabled based on at least one first pre-determined criterion. The method further comprises the step of activating an automatic locking function of the bus if at least one second pre-determined criterion is fulfilled and if the automatic locking function is enabled.

This has the advantage that a locking only occurs when needed, for example due to crime factors and/or psychological factors. By separating the locking in enabling criteria and activating criteria electrical energy from the bus battery can be saved. Further time can be saved. This is due to the fact that unnecessary locking is prevented.

In one example the method further comprises the step of deactivating the automatic locking function if at least one third pre-determined criterion is fulfilled.

In one example of the method said at least one first pre-determined criterion relates at least to a geographical position of the bus. Crime or the like can often vary heavily between different areas. By coupling the enabling of the locking function to specific areas an especially useful coupling to the need of a locking can be provided.

In one example of the method said at least one first pre-determined criterion relates at least to the actual time. Crime or the like can often vary heavily between different time periods. By coupling the enabling of the locking function to specific time periods an especially useful coupling to the need of a locking can be provided.

In one example of the method said at least one first pre-determined criterion relates at least to a light detection of the external light around the bus. Crime or the like, or a fear for crime or the like, can often vary heavily between different light conditions. By coupling the enabling of the locking function to specific light conditions an especially useful coupling to the need of a locking can be provided.

In one example of the method said automatic locking function relates at least to an automatic mechanical locking of said at least one door. This provides increased safety as compared to only operating doors by air pressure since a mechanical locking stays active even if low air pressure occurs.

In one example of the method said automatic locking function comprises activating a latch or bolt of said at least one door. This provides an especially safe locking procedure.

At least some of the objectives are also achieved by a system for locking at least one door of a bus. The system comprises means for determining whether an automatic locking function should be enabled based on at least one first pre-determined criterion. The system further comprises means for activating an automatic locking function of the bus if at least one second pre-determined criterion is fulfilled and if the automatic locking function is enabled.

In one embodiment the system further comprises means for deactivating the automatic locking function if at least one third pre-determined criterion is fulfilled.

In one embodiment the system further comprises means for determining a geographical position of the bus. Said at least one first pre-determined criterion relates at least to a geographical position of the bus.

In one embodiment the system comprises means for light detection of the external light around the bus. Said at least one first pre-determined criterion relates at least to a light detection of the external light around the bus.

In one embodiment the system comprises means for an automatic mechanical locking of said at least one door.

In one embodiment of the system the means for activating are arranged to activate a latch or bolt of said at least one door.

At least some of the objectives are also achieved by a bus comprising a system according to the present disclosure.

At least a part of the objectives are achieved by a computer program for locking at least one door of a bus, wherein said computer program comprises program code for causing an electronic control unit or a computer connected to the electronic control unit to perform the steps of the method according to the present disclosure.

At least a part of the objectives are also achieved by a computer program product containing a program code stored on a computer-readable medium for performing the method according to the present disclosure, when said computer program is run on an electronic control unit or a computer connected to the electronic control unit.

The system, the vehicle, the computer program and the computer program product have corresponding advantages as have been described in connection with the corresponding examples of the method according to this disclosure.

Further advantages of the present invention are described in the following detailed description and/or will arise to a person skilled in the art when performing the invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS For a more detailed understanding of the present invention and its objects and advantages, reference is made to the following detailed description which should be read together with the accompanying drawings. Same reference numbers refer to same components in the different figures. In the following, Fig. 1 shows, in a schematic way, a vehicle according to one embodiment of the present invention; Fig. 2 shows, in a schematic way, a system according to the present invention; Fig. 3 shows, in a schematic way, a method for locking at least one door of a bus according to an example of the present invention; and Fig. 4 shows, in a schematic way, a device which can be used in connection with the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION Fig. 1 shows a side view of a bus 100. In one example, the bus 100 is a tourist bus/coach. The bus 100 can be any other kind of bus such as a transit bus, school bus, minibus, or any other kind of bus. The bus can be a double-decker bus or a single-decker bus. The bus 100 comprises a system 299, se Fig. 2.

The bus 100 comprises at least one door 290.

The term "link" refers herein to a communication link which may be a physical connection such as an opto-electronic communication line, or a non-physical connection such as a wireless connection, e.g. a radio link or microwave link.

Fig. 2 shows, in a schematic way, a system 299 for locking at least one door of a bus. The system 299 comprises means 210 for determining whether an automatic locking function should be enabled based on at least one first pre-determined criterion. Said means 210 can comprise means 211 for light detection of external light around the bus. Here, and in the whole document, the term external light relates to light not emanating from the light sources of the bus. Said means 211 can comprise a light sensor. Said means 211 can be arranged to detect the light intensity outside the bus. Said means 211 are preferably arranged so that they are not affected by the light emanating from the bus, such as light sources of the bus. In one example, said means 211 are arranged to detect a light intensity of the sunlight reaching the bus. In one example, said means 211 are arranged to detect a light intensity of street lights reaching the bus. Said means 211 are preferably arranged at the outside of the bus, for example on the roof top or a side, rear, and/or front wall of the bus. Said means 211 are in one example arranged to determine whether said light intensity is above a pre-determined threshold.

Said means 210 can comprise means 212 for determining an actual time. Said means 212 can comprise a clock. Said means 212 can comprise a receiver of a time-signal. Said means 212 can be arranged to determine whether the actual time is within a pre-determined time period. Said pre-determined time-period can relate to a certain time of the day, such as a period between 22:00 and 6:00. Said pre-determined time-period can relate to a certain day of the week, such as Sunday. Said pre-determined time-period can relate to a certain day and/or period of the year, such as 1May, November-February, or the like. Said pre-determined timeperiod can be any other time-period or any combination of the above.

Said means 210 can comprise means 213 for determining a geographical position of the bus. Said means 213 are preferably arranged to determine a current geographical position of the bus. Said means 213 can comprise a GPS-receiver, or a receiver for any other global navigations satellite system, GNSS. Said 213 means can comprise a receiver for positioning data. Said means 213 can comprise an inertial measurement unit, IMU. Said means 213 can comprise a receiver for mobile data. Several different techniques are known in the art how to determine the position of a vehicle. Therefore, this is not discussed here any further.

Said means 213 can be arranged to determine whether the bus is in a pre-determined area. Said pre-determined area can relate to a certain road or a certain road section. Said predetermined area can relate to a pre-determined quarter, district, city, and/or region. Said predetermined area can relate to any combination of the aforementioned. In one example said means 213 are arranged to transmit the geographical position. Said transmission can be to an external system. Said external system can be arranged to determine whether the bus is in a pre-determined area. Said external system can be arranged to transmit said determination to said means 213. In one example information regarding said pre-determined area is stored aboard the bus.

Said system comprises a first control unit 200. Said first control unit 200 can be arranged to control operation of said means 210. Said first control unit can be arranged to control operation of any of said means 211-213. Said first control unit 200 is arranged for communication with said means 210 via a link L210. This can comprise communication with any of said means 211-213. Said first control unit 200 is arranged to receive information from said means 210. This can comprise receiving information from any of said means 211-213.

The first control unit 200 can be arranged to perform one or more of the processes attributed to the means 211-213. As one example, the means 211 can be arranged to transmit a detected light intensity to the control unit 200. The first control unit 200 can then be arranged to determine whether said light intensity is above a pre-determined threshold. As one example said means 212 can be arranged to transmit an actual time to the first control unit 200. The first control unit 200 can then be arranged to determine whether said actual time is within a pre-determined time-period. As one example said means 213 can be arranged to transmit the geographical position of the bus to the first control unit 200. The first control unit 200 can then be arranged to determine whether the bus is situated within a pre-determined area.

The first control unit 200 can be arranged whether a combination of any of the above is fulfilled. An example of such a combination is for example a certain district during night time in winter. Said night time can, for example, be determined based on the fact that said light intensity is below a pre-determined threshold.

Said at least one first pre-determined criterion can relate to at least to the actual time, at least to the geographical position of the bus, and/or at least to a light detection of the external light around the bus. That has been described above. However, said at least one first predetermined criterion can relate to any other criterion. This is discussed further in relation to Fig. 3. Said means 210 can comprise any means to determine said other criterion.

Said determining whether an automatic locking function should be enabled based on at least one first pre-determined criterion can be performed by said means 210, and/or by said means 210 in combination with said first control unit 200.

Said system 299 comprises means 220 for activating an automatic locking function of the bus if at least one second pre-determined criterion is fulfilled and if the automatic locking function is enabled. Said means 220 can comprise a door control system 221. Said door control system 221 can be arranged to determine whether at least one door of the bus is closed.

Said means 220 can comprise a brake control system 222. Said brake control system 222 can be a control system for a so-called bus stop brake. A bus stop brake system is for example a brake system which automatically applies a pressure to a service brake of the bus once the doors are opened. This can be performed partly for saving time, partly for saving air pressure if the parking brake does not need to be activated. Such bus stop brake systems are known in the art. Said control system for the bus stop brake can be arranged to determine whether the bus stop brake function is deactivated.

Said means 220 can comprise a speed sensor arrangement 223. Said speed sensor arrangement 223 can be arranged to determine a current speed of the bus. Said speed sensor arrangement 223 can be arranged to determine whether the determined current speed of the bus is above a first pre-determined threshold.

Said means 220 can comprise a steering wheel sensor arrangement 224. Said steering wheel sensor arrangement 224 can be arranged to determine whether the steering wheel has been turned left or right after at least one door has been closed. Preferably the steering wheel sensor arrangement 224 is arranged to determine whether the steering wheel has been turned right in areas with left-hand driving. Preferably the steering wheel sensor arrangement 224 is arranged to determine whether the steering wheel has been turned left in areas with right-hand driving.

Said first control unit 200 can be arranged to control operation of said means 220. Said first control unit can be arranged to control operation of any of said systems/arrangements 221-224. Said first control unit 200 is arranged for communication with said means 220 via a link L220. This can comprise communication with any of said systems/arrangements 221-224. Said first control unit 200 is arranged to receive information from said means 220. This can comprise receiving information from any of said systems/arrangements 221-224.

The first control unit 200 can be arranged to perform one or more of the processes attributed to the means 221-224. Examples of such processes are, for example, determining whether at least one door of the bus is closed, whether the bus stop brake function is deactivated, whether the current speed of the bus is above a pre-determined first threshold and/or whether the steering wheel has been turned left or right after at least one door has been closed.

Said at least one second pre-determined criterion can relate to whether at least one door is closed, whether the bus stop brake function is deactivated, whether the current speed of the bus is above a pre-determined first threshold and/or whether the steering wheel has been turned left or right after at least one door has been closed. However, said at least one second pre-determined criterion can relate to any other criterion. This is discussed further in relation to Fig. 3. Said means 220 can comprise any means to determine said other criterion.

Said activating of an automatic locking function of the bus if at least one second predetermined criterion is fulfilled and if the automatic locking function is enabled can be performed by said means 220, and/or by said means 220 in combination with said first control unit 200.

The system 299 comprises means 230 for an automatic locking of said at least one door. Said means 230 are preferably means for an automatic mechanical locking of said at least one door. In one example said means 230 comprise at least one latch. In one example said means 230 comprise at least one bolt, for example a deadbolt. In one example said means 230 are electrically actuated. In one example said means 230 are magnetically actuated. By using mechanical locking security can be increased. For example, low pressure in an air supply system will no longer allow the door to be easily opened.

Said first control unit 200 can be arranged to control operation of said means 230. Said first control unit 200 is arranged for communication with said means 230 via a link L230. Said first control unit 200 is arranged to receive information from said means 230.

Said means 230 are preferably operated to lock said at least one door if said means 220 and/or said first control unit 200 have determined that said at least one second predetermined criterion is fulfilled and that the automatic locking function is enabled. In one example, said means 220 and/or said first control unit 200 are arranged to send a control signal to said means 230 when said at least one door should be locked.

Said system 299 comprises means 250 for deactivating the automatic locking function if at least one third pre-determined criterion is fulfilled. Said means 250 comprise in one example means 251 for receiving a passenger input. Said means 251 can comprise a button, a display, a switch, or the like. Said means 251 can be arranged close to at least one door. Said means 251 can be arranged to receive a passenger input in case a passenger wishes at least one door to open. Examples of said means 251 are known in the art. Said means 251 can be labelled by "Press here to open the door", or the like.

Said means 250 can comprise means 252 for receiving a driver input. Said means 252 can comprise a button, a display, a switch, or the like. Said means 252 can be arranged at the dashboard, and/or close to the dashboard. Said means 252 can be arranged to receive a driver input in case the driver wishes at least one door to open. Examples of said means 252 are known in the art. Said means 252 can be arranged to open said at least one door upon a driver input.

Said means 250 can comprise a brake control system 253. Said brake control system 253 can be the same brake control system as the brake control system 222. Said brake control system 253 can be a control system for a so-called bus stop brake. Said brake control system for the bus stop brake can be arranged to determine whether the bus stop brake function is activated.

Said means 250 can comprise a speed sensor arrangement 254. Said speed sensor arrangement 254 can be arranged to determine a current speed of the bus. Said speed sensor arrangement 254 can be arranged to determine whether the determined current speed of the bus is below a second pre-determined threshold. Said speed sensor arrangement 254 can be the same arrangement as the speed sensor arrangement 223.

Said first control unit 200 can be arranged to control operation of said means 250. Said first control unit can be arranged to control operation of any of said means/systems/arrangements 251-254. Said first control unit 200 is arranged for communication with said means 250 via a link L250. This can comprise communication with any of said means/systems/arrangements 251-254. Said first control unit 200 is arranged to receive information from said means 250. This can comprise receiving information from any of said means/systems/arrangements 251-254.

The first control unit 200 can be arranged to perform one or more of the processes attributed to the means 251-254. Examples of such processes are, for example, determining whether a passenger input has been received, determining whether the bus stop brake function is activated, whether the current speed of the bus is below a pre-determined second threshold and/or whether a driver input has been received.

Said at least one third pre-determined criterion can relate to whether a passenger input has been received, whether the bus stop brake function is activated, whether the current speed of the bus is below a pre-determined second threshold and/or whether a driver input has been received. However, said at least one third pre-determined criterion can relate to any other criterion. Said means 250 can comprise any means to determine said other criterion. In one example, several of the above named criteria have to be fulfilled to deactivate the automatic locking function, such as that a passenger or driver input has been received and that the bus stop brake is activated.

Said means 230 are preferably operated to unlock said at least one door if said means 250 and/or said first control unit 200 have determined that said at least one third pre-determined criterion is fulfilled. In one example, said means 250 and/or said first control unit 200 are arranged to send a control signal to said means 230 when said at least one door should be unlocked.

Said system 299 can comprise an unlocking master switch 240. Said switch 240 can be arranged to unlock at least one door and preferably all doors upon activation of the switch. Said switch 240 can be a button, a display, or any other means for receiving a manual user input as well. Said switch 240 is preferably placed so that it is hard to reach for an outside intruder, such as on the roof of the bus. A purpose of said master switch is to unlock the door(s) of the bus in case of an accident. Another unlocking master switch can be placed on the inside of the bus.

Said first control unit 200 can be arranged to control operation of said switch 240. Said first control unit 200 can be arranged for communication with said switch 240 via a link L240. Said first control unit 200 can be arranged to receive information from said switch 240.

Said system 299 can comprise locking indication means 260. Said means 260 can be arranged to provide an indication in case the bus is locked. Said means 260 can be arranged to indicate whether the bus is locked or not. Said means 260 can be visual indication means, such as displays, lamps, or the like. Said means 260 can be arranged at or close to said at least one door. By providing an indication in case the bus is locked, potential intruders will be warned so that they might not even try to enter the bus. Further, in case of an accident and/or an emergency, a rescue team could easier understand what help means would be needed to open the doors of the bus.

Said first control unit 200 can be arranged to control operation of said means 260. Said first control unit 200 is arranged for communication with said means 260 via a link L260. Said first control unit 200 can be arranged to receive information from said means 260.

The system 299 has been described as relating to at least one door. Buses usually comprise two or more doors. Said system 299 can be arranged to treat all doors in the same way. Said system 299 can be arranged to treat different doors in different ways. As one example, different first, second, and/or third pre-determined criteria can be applied to one door in comparison to another door. In one example a door close to the driver has different criteria compared to doors in the middle or at the end of a bus. The elements, means, and so on, which have been described so far, could be multiplied for different doors. The elements, means, and so on, which have been described so far, could be arranged to work independently for different doors. As an example, said means 251 for receiving a passenger input can be arranged at several doors. Said means 251 can be arranged to work independently for every door.

Here in the whole document the expression door comprises passenger doors, i.e. doors which are intended for allowing passengers and/or drivers to enter the bus in a normal way.

However, the term door can also comprise hatches, for example hatches to a baggage compartment of the bus.

A second control unit 205 is arranged for communication with the first control unit 200 via a link L205 and may be detachably connected to it. It may be a control unit external to the vehicle 100. It may be adapted to conducting the innovative method steps according to the invention. The second control unit 205 may be arranged to perform the inventive method steps according to the invention. It may be used to cross-load software to the first control unit 200, particularly software for conducting the innovative method. It may alternatively be arranged for communication with the first control unit 200 via an internal network on board the vehicle. It may be adapted to performing substantially the same functions as the first control unit 200, such as controlling any of the elements of the system 299. The innovative method may be conducted by the first control unit 200 or the second control unit 205, or by both of them.

Fig. 3 shows, in a schematic way, a method 400 for locking at least one door of a bus according to an example of the present invention. The method starts with step 410.

In step 410 it is determined whether an automatic locking function should be enabled based on at least one first pre-determined criterion. In case said at least one first pre-determined criterion is not fulfilled, the method preferably restarts. Said at least one first pre-determined criterion can relate at least to a geographical position of the bus. As an example, a predetermined area can be determined where bus doors should be locked. This pre-determined area can be determined based on crime statistics. Said pre-determined area can be determined based on the driver's and/or operator's statistics of incidents. Said predetermined area can be determined based on any other statistics, such as statistics from insurance companies or the like. Said pre-determined area can be determined based on information regarding present or upcoming dangers. As an example, said pre-determined area can comprise an area where a potentially dangerous demonstration is planned, or the like. Said at least one first pre-determined condition comprises in one example that the geographical position of the bus is within said pre-determined area.

Said at least one first pre-determined criterion can relate at least to the actual time. As an example, a pre-determined time period can be determined when bus doors should be locked. Said pre-determined time period can be defined as described in relation to Fig. 2. This predetermined time period can be determined based on crime statistics. Said pre-determined time period can be determined based on the driver's and/or operator's statistics of incidents. Said pre-determined time period can be determined based on any other statistics, such as statistics from insurance companies or the like. Said pre-determined time period can be determined based on information regarding present or upcoming dangers. As an example, said pre-determined time period can comprise a time period where a potentially dangerous demonstration is planned, where crimes such as robbery usually are performed, where accidents or incidents usually happen, or the like. Said at least one first pre-determined condition comprises in one example that the actual time is within said pre-determined time period.

Said at least one first pre-determined criterion can relate at least to a light detection of the external light around the bus, such as a level of light intensity, for example a detected level of light intensity. As an example, a pre-determined level of light intensity can be determined when bus doors should be locked, such as a light intensity below a pre-determined threshold. As an example, a pre-determined level of light intensity can be determined where bus doors should be locked. This pre-determined level of light intensity can be determined based on crime statistics. Said pre-determined level of light intensity can be determined based on the driver's and/or operator's statistics of incidents. Said pre-determined level of light intensity can be determined based on any other statistics, such as statistics from insurance companies or the like. Said pre-determined level of light intensity can be determined based on information regarding present or upcoming dangers. As an example, said pre-determined level of light intensity can relate to a level of light intensity which is so dark that potential intruders cannot be seen in good time. Said pre-determined level of light intensity can relate to a level of light intensity which commonly is referred to as "dark". In one example said level is chosen in such a way that it relates to the absence of sunlight. In one example said level is chosen in such a way that it relates to the absence of sunlight and activated streetlights. Said predetermined level of light intensity does not necessarily have to relate to crime, accidents, or the like. In one example said pre-determined level of light intensity is chosen based on psychological factors, for example in such a way that it relates to a level of light intensity in which passengers commonly feel uncomfortable. Said at least one first pre-determined condition comprises in one example that the light detection of the external light around the bus is below said pre-determined level of light intensity.

It is possible to combine any of the aforementioned criteria and any other criteria into a combined set of first pre-determined criteria. As an example, a certain area is only unsafe during a certain time of the day. Thus said locking function is neither enabled when travelling through said certain area at another time of the day, nor when travelling through another area at said certain time of the day. Any other more complex combinations are possible as well. Other criteria which can be used as said at least one first pre-determined criterion are preferably any other criteria relating to crime and/or accidents/incidents statistics, and/or relating to psychological factors of fear and/or uneasiness.

In case said at least one first pre-determined criterion is fulfilled, the method continues with step 420.

In step 420 it is determined whether an automatic locking function of the bus should be activated. Said activation is determined based on whether at least one second pre-determined criterion is fulfilled and whether the automatic locking function is enabled. In case either said at least one second pre-determined criterion is not fulfilled or said automatic locking function is not enabled, the method preferably restarts.

Said at least one second pre-determined criterion can comprise that said at least one door is closed. This can be for example detected by sensors and/or a control unit. Said at least one second pre-determined criterion can comprise that the bus stop brake function is activated. This can for example be determined by a control system. Said at least one second predetermined criterion can comprise that the bus travels above a certain first pre-determined speed. This can for example be determined by a speed sensor. Said at least one second predetermined criterion can comprise that a steering wheel is turned left or right, preferably after that doors are closed. This can for example be determined by a sensor or by a control system.

Said at least one second pre-determined criterion can be a combination of the abovementioned criteria. As an example, said second pre-determined criterion can comprise a speed above a first threshold, closed doors and a turning of the steering wheel. Even any other criterion indicative, either alone or in combination with other criteria, for leaving the bus stop, can be used. In case said at least one second pre-determined criterion is fulfilled and said automatic locking function is enabled, the method continues with step 430.

In step 430 said at least one door is locked. In one example said locking relates to an automatic mechanical locking. Said locking can comprise activating at least one latch and/or at least one bolt. The method can continue with the optional step 435.

In the optional step 435 an indication of the locking is given on the bus. This indication is preferably a visual indication. Said indication of the locking can either indicate for potential intruders that it is useless to try to enter the bus and/or indicate for potential rescuing personal that special operations need to be performed to enter the bus, thus as using special tools and/or activating an unlocking master switch. The method continues with step 440.

In the optional step 440 it is determined whether the automatic locking function should be deactivated. Said deactivation should be performed if at least one third pre-determined criterion is fulfilled. In case said at least one third pre-determined criterion is not fulfilled the method preferably restarts step 440, or alternatively, the method continues with the optional step 470.

Said at least one third pre-determined criterion can comprise that the speed is below a certain second pre-determined threshold. This can for example be detected by a speed sensor. Said speed criterion is preferably not used alone but only in combination with other criteria. This is due to the fact that the speed criterion alone also might be applied when stopping at a red traffic light or travelling at low speed in a traffic jam in an area with considerable risk for robbery. Said at least one third pre-determined criterion can comprise that the bus stop brake is activated. Said at least one third pre-determined criterion can comprise that a driver triggers an opening of at least one door. This can for example be performed via performing an input from the driver to means for receiving a driver input. Said at least one third pre-determined criterion can comprise that a passenger indicates the wish for at least one door to be opened. This can for example be performed via performing an input from the passenger to means for receiving a passenger input.

Said at least one third pre-determined criterion can be a combination of the abovementioned criteria. As an example, said second pre-determined criterion can comprise a speed below a certain second pre-determined threshold, an activation of the bus stop brake and a passenger input. Even any other criterion indicative, either alone or in combination with other criteria, for an intention to safely open the door of the bus, can be used in combination with said at least one third pre-determined criterion.

In case said at least one third pre-determined criterion is fulfilled the method continues with step 450.

In step 450 said at least one door is unlocked. Said locking can comprise operating at least one latch and/or at least one bolt. The method can continue with the optional step 460.

In the optional step 460 said indication of the locking is updated. Said updating can comprise indicating that the bus is unlocked. Said updating can comprise deactivating said indication. After the optional step 460 the method preferably restarts.

In the optional step 470 it is determined whether said unlocking master switch is operated. In case the switch is operated so that the doors should unlock, the method continues with step 450. In case the switch is not operated the method continues with step 440 again.

The method 400 is described in one example. It should, however, be noted that the method according to the present disclosure can be performed differently as well. As an example, steps can be performed in a different order or in parallel. As an example, step 410 and step 420 can be performed in parallel and the order of steps 430 and 435 could be reversed. Even other modifications within the wording of the claims will be easily possible for a person skilled in the art.

Figure 4 is a diagram of one version of a device 500. The control units 200 and 205 described with reference to Figure 2 may in one version comprise the device 500. The device 500 comprises a non-volatile memory 520, a data processing unit 510 and a read/write memory 550. The non-volatile memory 520 has a first memory element 530 in which a computer program, e.g. an operating system, is stored for controlling the function of the device 500. The device 500 further comprises a bus controller, a serial communication port, I/O means, an A/D converter, a time and date input and transfer unit, an event counter and an interruption controller (not depicted). The non-volatile memory 520 has also a second memory element 540.

The computer program comprises routines for locking at least one door of a bus.

The computer program P may comprise routines for determining whether an automatic locking function should be enabled based on at least one first pre-determined criterion. This may at least partly be performed by means of said first control unit 200 and/or said means 210. This may comprise accessing information form said non-volatile memory, such as information regarding a pre-determined area, a pre-determined time period, a predetermined light level, or the like.

The computer program P may comprise routines for activating an automatic locking function of the bus if at least one second pre-determined criterion is fulfilled and if the automatic locking function is enabled. This may at least partly be performed by means of said first control unit 200 and/or said means 220. This may comprise that said first control unit 200 and/or said means 220 control operation of said means 230.

The computer program P may comprise routines for deactivate the automatic locking function if at least one third pre-determined criterion is fulfilled. This may at least partly be performed by means of said first control unit 200 and/or said means 250. This may comprise that said first control unit 200 and/or said means 230 control operation of said means 230.

The computer program P may comprise routines for determining whether said at least one first pre-determined condition is fulfilled. The computer program P may comprise routines for determining whether said at least one second pre-determined condition is fulfilled. The computer program P may comprise routines for determining whether said at least one third pre-determined condition is fulfilled.

The program P may be stored in an executable form or in compressed form in a memory 560 and/or in a read/write memory 550.

Where it is stated that the data processing unit 510 performs a certain function, it means that it conducts a certain part of the program which is stored in the memory 560 or a certain part of the program which is stored in the read/write memory 550.

The data processing device 510 can communicate with a data port 599 via a data bus 515. The non-volatile memory 520 is intended for communication with the data processing unit 510 via a data bus 512. The separate memory 560 is intended to communicate with the data processing unit via a data bus 511. The read/write memory 550 is arranged to communicate with the data processing unit 510 via a data bus 514. The links L205, L210, L220, L230, L240, L250, and L260, for example, may be connected to the data port 599 (see Figure 4).

When data are received on the data port 599, they can be stored temporarily in the second memory element 540. When input data received have been temporarily stored, the data processing unit 510 can be prepared to conduct code execution as described above.

Parts of the methods herein described may be conducted by the device 500 by means of the data processing unit 510 which runs the program stored in the memory 560 or the read/write memory 550. When the device 500 runs the program, methods herein described are executed.

The foregoing description of the preferred embodiments of the present invention is provided for illustrative and descriptive purposes. It is neither intended to be exhaustive, nor to limit the invention to the variants described. Many modifications and variations will obviously suggest themselves to one skilled in the art. The embodiments have been chosen and described in order to best explain the principles of the invention and their practical applications and thereby make it possible for one skilled in the art to understand the invention for different embodiments and with the various modifications appropriate to the intended use.

It should especially be noted that the system according to the present disclosure can be arranged to perform any of the steps or actions described in relation to the method 400. It should also be understood that the method according to the present disclosure can further comprise any of the actions attributed to an element of the engine system 299 described in relation to Fig. 2. The same applies to the computer program and the computer program product.

Claims

1. A method (400) for locking at least one door of a bus, the method comprising the steps of: - determining (410) whether an automatic locking function should be enabled based on at least one first pre-determined criterion, wherein said at least one first pre-determined criterion relates to at least a geographical position of the bus, and/or at least the actual time, and/or at least a light detection of the external light around the bus; - determining whether an automatic locking function should be enabled based on at least one second pre-determined criterion, wherein said at least one second criterion relates to whether at least one door is closed and/or whether the bus stop brake function is deactivated and/or whether the current speed of the bus is above a pre-determined first threshold and/or whether the steering wheel has been turned left or right after at least one door has been closed; - activating (420, 430) an automatic locking function of the bus if at least one first pre-determined criterion and at least one second pre-determined criterion are fulfilled and if the automatic locking function is enabled.

2. The method according to claim 1, wherein said at least one first pre-determined criterion relates at least to a geographical position of the bus.

3. The method according to claim 1, wherein said at least one first pre-determined criterion relates at least to the actual time.

4. The method according to claim 1, wherein said at least one first pre-determined criterion relates at least to a light detection of the external light around the bus.

5. The method according to anyone of the previous claims, wherein said automatic locking function relates at least to an automatic mechanical locking of said at least one door.

6. The method according to anyone of the previous claims, wherein said automatic locking function comprises activating a latch or bolt of said at least one door.

7. A system (299) for locking at least one door of a bus, the system comprising: - means (200; 210-213) for determining whether an automatic locking function should be enabled based on at least one first pre-determined criterion, wherein said at least one first pre-determined criterion relates to at least a geographical position of the bus, and/or at least the actual time, and/or at least a light detection of the external light around the bus; - means for determining whether an automatic locking function should be enabled based on at least one second pre-determined criterion, wherein said at least one second criterion relates to whether at least one door is closed and/or whether the bus stop brake function is deactivated and/or whether the current speed of the bus is above a pre-determined first threshold and/or whether the steering wheel has been turned left or right after at least one door has been closed; - means (200; 220-224) for activating an automatic locking function of the bus if at least one first pre-determined criterion and at least one second predetermined criterion are fulfilled and if the automatic locking function is enabled.

8. The system according to claim 7, wherein the system comprises means (213) for determining a geographical position of the bus and wherein said at least one first predetermined criterion relates at least to a geographical position of the bus.

9. The system according to claim 7, wherein the system comprises means (211) for light detection of the external light around the bus and wherein said at least one first predetermined criterion relates at least to a light detection of the external light around the bus.

10. The system according to anyone of claims 7-9, comprising means (230) for an automatic mechanical locking of said at least one door.

11. The system according to anyone of claims 7-10, wherein said means for activating are arranged to activate a latch or bolt of said at least one door.

12. A bus (100), comprising the system according to anyone of claims 7-11.

13. A computer program (P) for locking at least one door of a bus, wherein said computer program (P) comprises program code for causing an electronic control unit (200; 500) or a computer (205; 500) connected to the electronic control unit (200; 500) to perform the steps according to anyone of the claims 1-6.

14. A computer program product containing a program code stored on a computerreadable medium for performing method steps according to anyone of claims 1-6, when said computer program is run on an electronic control unit (200; 500) or a computer (205; 500) connected to the electronic control unit (200; 500).