SE542784C2

SE542784C2 - Method and a control device for determining vehicle operation of at least one vehicle

Info

Publication number: SE542784C2
Application number: SE1850137A
Authority: SE
Inventors: Andreas Höglund; Tiedemann Susan Miller
Original assignee: Scania Cv Ab
Priority date: 2018-02-08
Filing date: 2018-02-08
Publication date: 2020-07-07
Also published as: DE102019000363A1; SE1850137A1

Abstract

The present invention relates to a method performed by a control device (100) for determining vehicle operation of at least one vehicle (V1, V2, VN). The method comprises the steps of: determining at least one zone (Z1, Z2) associated with vehicle axle load and/or vehicle weight policies relevant for the operation of the at least one vehicle; determining vehicle axle load and/or vehicle weight of the at least one vehicle; and determining a required vehicle operation to fulfil the policies, based on a comparison of the determined vehicle axle load and/or vehicle weight and the vehicle axle load and/or weight policies associated with the at least one zone (Z1, Z2).The present invention also relates to a control device for determining vehicle operation of at least one vehicle. The present invention also relates to a vehicle. The present invention also relates to a computer program and a computer readable medium.

Description

METHOD AND A CONTROL DEVICE FOR DETERMINING VEHICLE OPERATION OF AT LEAST ONE VEHICLE TECHNICAL FIELD The invention relates to a method performed by a control device for determining vehicle operation of at least one vehicle according to the preamble of claim 1. The invention also relates to a control device for determining vehicle operation of at least one vehicle. The invention further relates to a vehicle. The invention in addition relates to a computer program and a computer readable medium.

BACKGROUND ART On certain roads and road segments there may be a maximum allowable axle load and/or vehicle weight policies. For heavy vehicles such as trucks this is an issue that needs to be taken into account in order to fulfil such axle load and/or vehicle weight policies.

There is thus a need to facilitate determining vehicle operation of vehicles.

OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION An object of the present invention is to provide a method performed by a control device for determining vehicle operation of at least one vehicle which, considering vehicle axle load and/or vehicle weight, facilitates improved vehicle operation efficiency.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a control device for determining vehicle operation of at least one vehicle which, considering vehicle axle load and/or vehicle weight, facilitates improved vehicle operation efficiency.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a vehicle comprising such a control device.

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

Specifically an object of the invention is achieved by a method performed by a control device for determining vehicle operation of at least one vehicle. The method comprises the steps of: determining at least one zone associated with vehicle axle load and/or vehicle weight policies relevant for the operation of the at least one vehicle; determining vehicle axle load and/or vehicle weight of the at least one vehicle; and determining a required vehicle operation to fulfil the policies, based on a comparison of the determined vehicle axle load and/or vehicle weight and the vehicle axle load and/or weight policies associated with the at least one zone. The method further comprises the step of, during the required vehicle operation, logging one or more of the parameters: determined vehicle axle load and/or vehicle weight; vehicle location; point of time; current vehicle axle load and/or vehicle weight policies; vehicle operation efficiency; current external vehicle operation conditions, for subsequent vehicle operation monitoring. The method further comprises the step of storing the thus logged parameters. The method further comprises the step of determining the efficiency of the required vehicle operation based on one or more of the thus stored logged parameters.

By thus determining a required vehicle operation to fulfil the vehicle axle load and/or vehicle weight policies vehicle operation may be improved. By thus determining a required vehicle operation to fulfil the vehicle axle load and/or vehicle weight policies vehicle operation efficiency may be improved, the required vehicle operation to fulfil the policies forming a basis for such improvements. By thus determining a required vehicle operation to fulfil the vehicle axle load and/or vehicle weight policies possible vehicle axle load and/or vehicle weight regulations may be efficiently fulfilled, i.e. legal compliance with regard to vehicle axle load and/or vehicle weight may be efficiently obtained.

By thus logging one or more of the parameters a basis for determining vehicle operation efficiency with regard to vehicle axle load and/or vehicle weight for the at least one vehicle is provided.

By thus storing the thus logged parameters relevant information for determining vehicle operation efficiency for the at least one vehicle is saved in an efficient way and may easily be made accessible.

By thus determining the efficiency of the required vehicle operation, efficiency with regard to one or more of: costs, wear, time consumed, routes used so that vehicle axle load/vehicle weight may be adapted in order to improve vehicle operation efficiency for later vehicle operations and/or current vehicle operation. Vehicle operation adaption may comprise re-routing, adaption of vehicle weight, change of vehicle or the like.

According to an embodiment of the method the step of determining the efficiency of the required vehicle operation based on one or more of the thus stored logged parameters is performed during and/or after said vehicle operation. By determining vehicle operation efficiency during vehicle operation, vehicle operation efficiency may be adapted during vehicle operation/vehicle drive if required/desired. By determining vehicle operation efficiency after vehicle operation, vehicle operation efficiency may be adapted for other occasions by e.g. changing vehicle, adapting load, changing route or the like.

According to an embodiment of the method the at least one zone associated with certain vehicle axle load and/or vehicle weight policies relevant for the operation of the vehicle comprises a geographical zone and/or a time zone.

Specifically an object of the invention is achieved by a control device for determining vehicle operation of at least one vehicle. The control device is configured to: determine at least one zone associated with vehicle axle load and/or vehicle weight policies relevant for the operation of the at least one vehicle; determine vehicle axle load and/or vehicle weight of the at least one vehicle; and determine a required vehicle operation to fulfil the policies, based on a comparison of the determined vehicle axle load and/or vehicle weight and the vehicle axle load and/or weight policies associated with the at least one zone. The control device is further configured to log one or more of the parameters: determined vehicle axle load and/or vehicle weight; vehicle location; point of time; current vehicle axle load and/or vehicle weight policies; vehicle operation efficiency; current external vehicle operation conditions, for subsequent vehicle operation monitoring. The control device is further configured to store the thus logged parameters, the control device is further configured to determine the efficiency of the required vehicle operation based on one or more of the thus stored logged parameters.

According to an embodiment the control device is configured to determine the efficiency of the required vehicle operation based on one or more of the thus stored logged parameters during and/or after said vehicle operation.

According to an embodiment of the control device the at least one zone associated with certain vehicle axle load and/or vehicle weight policies relevant for the operation of the vehicle comprises a geographical zone and/or a time zone.

Specifically an object of the invention is achieved by a vehicle comprising a control device as set out herein.

Specifically an object of the invention is achieved by a computer program for determining vehicle operation of at least one vehicle, said computer program comprising program code which, when run on an control device or another computer connected to the control device, causes the control device to perform the method as set out herein.

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 an embodiment of the present invention; Fig. 2 schematically illustrates framework for determining vehicle operation of at least one vehicle according to an embodiment of the present invention; Fig. 3 schematically illustrates a block diagram of a control device for determining vehicle operation of at least one vehicle according to an embodiment of the present invention; Fig. 4 schematically illustrates a flowchart of a method performed by a control device for determining vehicle operation of at least one vehicle 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 nonphysical connector such as a wireless connection, for example a radio or microwave link.

Hereinafter the term “zone” in relation to “zone associated with vehicle axle load and/or vehicle weight policies relevant for the operation of the vehicle” refers to a geographical zone and/or a time zone. The term “geographical zone” may refer to any geographical area in connection to which a vehicle may operate, which zone is associated with vehicle axle load and/or vehicle weight policies relevant for the operation of the vehicle. The term “geographical zone” may refer to a road or road segment along which the vehicle is travelling during vehicle operation. The term “geographical zone” may refer to a bridge. The term “time zone” may refer to the time during which vehicle axle load and/or vehicle weight policies are required. A geographical zone and a time zone may be combined, e.g. a geographical zone is associated with vehicle axle load and/or vehicle weight policies relevant for the operation of the vehicle during a certain time zone, e.g. during a certain time of the day.

Hereinafter the term “vehicle axle load and/or vehicle weight policies relevant for the operation of the vehicle” in relation to “at least one zone associated with vehicle axle load and/or vehicle weight policies relevant for the operation of the vehicle” may be any policies that may affect the vehicle operation regarding vehicle axle load. A vehicle axle load policy may be defined by one or more attributes describing a wanted behaviour in relation to vehicle operation in connection to a geographical zone and/or time zone. A vehicle axle load policy may be affected by e.g. road conditions, weather situation or the like. A vehicle axle load policy may be static, e.g. a manually drawn geographic zone, i.e. geographic area, where e.g. the axle load during vehicle operation shall not exceed a certain maximum vehicle axle load, e.g. a regulation by law. A vehicle axle load policy may be dynamic, e.g. the policy is automatically created based on rules, e.g. if the road temperature for a certain type of road is x degrees Celsius and the amount of rain is y mm/hour, the policy is to adapt the axle load for that zone, e.g. a road segment. A vehicle axle load policy may be informative or enforcing. An informative policy means that the operator of the vehicle is informed to adapt to a certain vehicle axle load during vehicle operation. An enforcing policy means that adaption of the vehicle axle load during vehicle operation to a vehicle axle load policy is automatic. A vehicle axle load policy may be a rule/regulation set by e.g. authorities, i.e. legal regulation for a certain geographical zone and/or time zone. A vehicle axle load policy may be a regulation set by e.g. a vehicle owner for a certain geographical zone and/or time zone. A vehicle axle load policy may be created in the vehicle. A vehicle axle load policy may be created in an off-board Zone Management system, which may be an external server unit, the so called cloud, an external data centre or any other means suitable for being operably connected to a vehicle, i.e. a control arrangement of a vehicle. A vehicle axle load policy may be created by an external data provider such as a Road Authority, City, Commercial Data provider, Open Data provider, Transport Buyer etc.

Hereinafter the term “vehicle operation” refers to any operation of the vehicle which may be relevant for any zone associated with vehicle axle load and/or vehicle weight policies relevant for the operation of the vehicle. Vehicle operation comprises driving the vehicle within a geographical zone, e.g. a road. For example driving on a forest road the vehicle axle load that such a road may handle may differ if the road is wet or dry.

Fig. 1 schematically illustrates a side view of a vehicle V1 according to an embodiment of the present invention.

The exemplified vehicle V1 is a heavy vehicle in the shape of a truck. The vehicle V1 is travelling on a road R.

The vehicle V1 may comprise a control device for determining vehicle operation of at least one vehicle. The vehicle V1 may comprise or be operably connectable to a system I for determining vehicle operation of at least one vehicle. The system I may comprise a control device 100 for determining vehicle operation of at least one vehicle.

The vehicle V1 comprises, according to an embodiment, a control device 100 for determining vehicle operation of at least one vehicle according to fig. 3.

The vehicle V1 is, according to an embodiment, arranged to be operated in accordance with a method M1 for determining vehicle operation of at least one vehicle according to fig. 4.

Fig. 2 schematically illustrates a framework for determining vehicle operation of at least one vehicle V1, V2, ..., VN according to an embodiment of the present invention. “N” is a natural number.

The at least one vehicle V1, V2, ..., VN may be travelling on one or more roads, here illustrated as a road R. The at least one vehicle V1, V2, ..., VN may comprise a control device 100 for determining vehicle operation of at least one vehicle during vehicle operation. The control device 100 may be a control device 100 according to fig. 3.

Zones Z1, Z2 associated with vehicle axle load and/or vehicle weight policies relevant for the operation of at least one vehicle V1, V2, VN, are illustrated. In this example a geographical zone Z1 in the form of a city and a time zone Z2 are illustrated. The road R or a segment/portion of the road R could also be a zone associated with vehicle axle load and/or vehicle weight policies relevant for the operation of the at least one vehicle V1, V2, ..., VN.

An off-board system ZM may be provided. The off-board Zone Management system may be an external server unit, the so called cloud, an external data centre or any other means suitable for being operably connected to a the at least one vehicle, e.g. the control device 100 of the at least one vehicle. The off-board system ZM may also comprise a control device 100.

One or more vehicle axle load and/or vehicle weight policies are provided within the framework.

The one or more vehicle axle load and/or vehicle weight policies may have been created in/by means of any suitable means connectable to the control device 100.

The one or more vehicle axle load and/or vehicle weight policies may have been created in/provided to the off-board Zone Management system ZM. In such a Zone Management System ZM vehicle axle load and/or vehicle weight policies may be created, updated, and deleted and followed up.

An axle load policy may be created by an external data provider such as a road authority, city, commercial data provider, open data provider, transport buyer etc.

The zones Z1, Z2 associated with vehicle axle load and/or vehicle weight policies relevant for the operation of the at least one vehicle are determined. One or more zones associated with vehicle axle load and/or vehicle weight policies may be determined by any suitable zone determination means, for example zone determination means as exemplified in fig. 3 described below.

A required vehicle operation to fulfil the policies is determined based on a comparison of the determined vehicle axle load and/or vehicle weight and the vehicle axle load and/or weight policies associated with the at least one zone Z1, Z2.

During the required vehicle operation one or more of the parameters: determined vehicle axle load and/or vehicle weight; vehicle location; point of time; current vehicle axle load and/or vehicle weight policies, vehicle operation efficiency, current external vehicle operation conditions, are logged for subsequent vehicle operation monitoring. The parameters are logged by means of the control device 100. The thus logged parameters are stored. The thus logged parameters may be stored internally in the respective vehicle and/or externally in said off-board system ZM.

The efficiency of the required vehicle operation is determined based on one or more of the thus stored logged parameters.

The determination of the efficiency of the required vehicle operation may be performed during the vehicle operation, wherein vehicle operation efficiency may be adapted during vehicle operation/vehicle drive if required/desired.

The determination of the efficiency of the required vehicle operation may be performed after the vehicle operation, wherein vehicle operation efficiency may be adapted for other occasions by e.g. changing vehicle, adapting load, changing route or the like.

Fig. 3 schematically illustrates a block diagram of a control device for determining vehicle operation of at least one vehicle according to an embodiment of the present invention.

The control device 100 for determining vehicle operation of at least one vehicle may be comprised in a system I for determining vehicle operation of at least one vehicle.

The control device may be implemented as a separate entity or distributed in two or more physical entities. The control device may comprise one or more computers. The control device may thus be implemented or realised by the control device comprising a processor and a memory, the memory comprising instructions, which when executed by the processor causes the control device to perform the herein disclosed method.

The control device 100 may comprise one or more electronic control units, processing units, computers, server units or the like for determining vehicle operation of at least one vehicle. The control device 100 may comprise control device such as one or more electronic control units arranged on board a vehicle. The control device 100 may comprise one or more electronic control units of the at least one vehicle. The control device 100 may comprise one or more electronic control units, processing units, computers, server units or the like of an off-board system arranged externally to the at least one vehicle and being operably connectable to the at least one vehicle.

The control device 100 is configured to determine at least one zone associated with vehicle axle load and/or vehicle weight policies relevant for the operation of the at least one vehicle.

The system I may comprise zone determination means 110 arranged to determine at least one zone associated with vehicle axle load and/or vehicle weight policies relevant for the operation of the at least one vehicle.

The control device 100 may comprise or be operably connectable to the zone determination means 110.

The at least one zone associated with vehicle axle load and/or vehicle weight policies relevant for the operation of the at least one vehicle may comprise a geographical zone and/or a time zone. Thus, according to an embodiment of the system I the at least one zone associated with vehicle axle load and/or vehicle weight policies relevant for the operation of the vehicle comprises a geographical zone and/or a time zone.

The zone determination means 110 may be arranged to determine one or more geographical zones associated with vehicle axle load and/or vehicle weight policies relevant for the operation of the vehicle.

The zone determination means 110 may be arranged to determine one or more time zones associated with vehicle axle load and/or vehicle weight policies relevant for the operation of the vehicle.

The zone determination means 110 may comprise a zone information receiving unit 112 arranged to receive information about at least one zone associated with vehicle axle load and/or vehicle weight policies relevant for the operation of the vehicle.

The zone information receiving unit 112 may be arranged to receive information about at least one zone associated with vehicle axle load and/or vehicle weight policies relevant for the operation of the vehicle from infrastructure via a vehicle-to-infrastructure communication arrangement.

The zone information receiving unit 112 may be arranged to receive information about at least one zone associated with vehicle axle load and/or vehicle weight policies relevant for the operation of the vehicle from one or more other vehicles via a vehicle-to-vehicle communication arrangement.

The zone determination means 110 may comprise a zone detection arrangement 114 arranged to detect the at least one zone associated with vehicle axle load and/or vehicle weight policies relevant for the operation of the vehicle. The zone detection arrangement 114 may comprise one or more sensors arranged to detect the at least one zone associated with vehicle axle load and/or vehicle weight policies relevant for the operation of the vehicle. The zone determination means 110 may thus comprise one or more sensors arranged to detect the at least one zone associated with vehicle axle load and/or vehicle weight policies relevant for the operation of the vehicle. The zone detection arrangement 114, e.g. one or more sensors, may be arranged on board the vehicle and configured to detect the one or more zones. The zone detection arrangement 114, e.g. one or more sensors, may be arranged to detect e.g. a sign with information about axle load and/or vehicle weight policies of a certain zone.

The zone determination means 110 may comprise a vehicle position identification device 116 for identifying the current position of the vehicle. The vehicle position identification device 116 may comprise a Global Navigation satellite System, GNSS, e.g. a global positioning system, GPS, arranged on board the vehicle. The Global Navigation satellite System may be arranged on board the vehicle.

The zone determination means 110 may comprise time determination means 117 for determining the current time. The time determination means 117 may be any suitable means for determining time. The time determination means 117 may comprise one or more clocks. The time determination means 117 may be comprised in the control device 100. The time determination means 117 may be comprised in the vehicle position identification device 116.

The zone determination means 110 may comprise retrieving unit 118 arranged to retrieve stored information of the at least one zone associated with vehicle axle load and/or vehicle weight policies relevant for the operation of the vehicle. The retrieving unit 118 may be arranged to retrieve such information from storage means. The storage means may be internal storage means arranged on board the vehicle and/or external storage means arranged externally to the vehicle. The storage means may comprise any suitable means for storing information/data about zones associated with vehicle axle load and/or vehicle weight policies relevant for the operation of vehicles. The retrieving unit 118 may be arranged to retrieve such information based on information about the current position of the vehicle from the vehicle position identification device 116. The retrieving unit 118 may be arranged to retrieve such information based on information about the current time from the time determination means 117.

The zone determination means 110 may be arranged to determine the at least one zone associated with vehicle axle load and/or vehicle weight policies relevant for the operation of the vehicle taking current position of the vehicle and/or current time into consideration.

The control device 100 is configured to determine vehicle axle load and/or vehicle weight of the at least one vehicle.

The system I may comprise vehicle load determination means 120 arranged to determine vehicle axle load and/or vehicle weight of the at least one vehicle. The vehicle load determination means 120 may be arranged to determine the total load of the at least one vehicle.

The control device 100 may comprise or be operably connectable to the vehicle axle load determination means 120.

The vehicle load determination means 120 may comprise vehicle load detection means 122 for detecting vehicle load.

The vehicle load detection means 122 may comprise one or more load detection sensors. The vehicle load detection means 122 may comprise one or more load detection sensors arranged in connection to the wheel axles of the vehicle. The vehicle load detection means 122 may comprise one or more load detection sensors arranged in connection to or comprised in bellows of a vehicle having a suspension system with a bellows configuration comprising a set of bellows arranged in connection to the respective axles of the chassis of the vehicle.

According to an embodiment the vehicle load detection means 122 may comprise means for determining bellows pressure in connection to the respective wheel axle and means for determining the vehicle weight based on the bellows pressure and the vehicle inclination.

According to an embodiment the vehicle load detection means 122 may comprise vehicle weight detection means for detecting the total vehicle weight.

The vehicle weight detection means may comprise a vehicle weigh scale for weighing the at least on vehicle.

According to an embodiment the vehicle load detection means 122 may comprise one or more detectors for weighing the load on the vehicle, wherein the total vehicle weight is determined by adding the thus detected vehicle load to the original weight of the vehicle which according to an embodiment is known beforehand.

The control device 100 is configured to determine a required vehicle operation to fulfil the policies, based on a comparison of the determined vehicle axle load and/or vehicle weight and the vehicle axle load and/or weight policies associated with the at least one zone According to an embodiment the system I comprises policy fulfilment determination means 130. The policy fulfilment determination means 130 is arranged to determine required vehicle operation to fulfil the policies, based on a comparison of the determined vehicle axle load and/or vehicle weight and the vehicle axle load and/or weight policies associated with the at least one zone.

The policy fulfilment determination means 130 may be arranged to compare the determined vehicle axle load and/or vehicle weight with the vehicle axle load and/or weight policies associated with the at least one zone.

The control device 100 may comprise or be operably connectable to the policy fulfilment determination means 130.

The control device 100 may be configured to determine external vehicle operation conditions. The external vehicle operation conditions may comprise weather conditions and/or road conditions in connection to the at least one vehicle during vehicle operation.

The system I may comprise external conditions determination means 140 for determining external vehicle operation conditions. The external vehicle operation conditions may comprise weather conditions and/or road conditions in connection to the at least one vehicle during vehicle operation.

The control device 100 may comprise or be operably connectable to the external conditions determination means 140.

The external conditions determination means 140 may comprise weather conditions determination means 142 for determining weather conditions in connection to the at least one vehicle during vehicle operation.

The weather conditions determination means 142 may comprise any suitable means for determining weather conditions.

The weather conditions determination means 142 may comprise one or more weather sensors. The weather sensors may comprise one or more rain sensors. The weather sensors may comprise one or more temperature sensors. The weather sensors may comprise one or more wind sensors.

The weather conditions determination means 142 comprises according to an embodiment means for extracting external weather data from one or more external weather data units comprising any suitable external server unit. The weather conditions determination means 142 may comprise one or more external weather data units.

Thus determined weather conditions may comprise rain and extent of rain, snow and extent of snow, current temperature, wind conditions or the like.

The external conditions determination means 140 may comprise road conditions determination means 144 for determining road conditions in connection to the at least one vehicle during vehicle operation.

The road conditions determination means 144 may comprise means for detecting road conditions in connection to the at least one vehicle during vehicle operation. The means for detecting road conditions may comprise any suitable detector unit for detecting the surface of the road along which the vehicle is travelling such as one or more cameras and/or one or more laser scanners and/or one or more radars.

The road conditions determination means 144 may comprise means for extracting information about road conditions from one or more external units comprising any suitable server unit.

Thus determined road conditions may comprise slippery road due to e.g. ice on the road, snow on the road, oil on the road, gravel on the road, water on the road, curves of the road or other road conditions that may affect driving along the road comprises vehicle axle load and/or vehicle weight.

The control device 100 may be configured to determine vehicle operation efficiency. Vehicle operation efficiency may comprise energy consumption for the at least one vehicle. Vehicle operation efficiency may comprise wear for the at least one vehicle.

The system I may comprise vehicle operation efficiency determination means 150 for determining vehicle operation efficiency of the at least one vehicle.

The control device 100 may comprise or be operably connectable to the vehicle operation efficiency determination means 150.

The vehicle operation efficiency determination means 150 may comprise energy consumption determination means 152 for determining energy consumption, e.g. fuel consumption. The energy consumption determination means 152 may comprise any suitable detector for detecting energy consumption, e.g. fuel consumption.

The vehicle operation efficiency determination means 150 may comprise wear determination means 154 for determining vehicle wear of the at least one vehicle. The wear determination means 154 may comprise any suitable detector/detectors for detecting wear on the at least one vehicle, e.g. wear on vehicle components.

According to an embodiment the control device 100 is further configured to log one or more of the parameters: determined vehicle axle load and/or vehicle weight; vehicle location; point of time; current vehicle axle load and/or vehicle weight policies, vehicle operation efficiency, current external vehicle operation conditions, for subsequent vehicle operation monitoring.

According to an embodiment the control device 100 is further configured to process one or more of the parameters: determined vehicle axle load and/or vehicle weight; vehicle location; point of time; current vehicle axle load and/or vehicle weight policies, vehicle operation efficiency, current external vehicle operation conditions, for subsequent vehicle operation monitoring.

According to an embodiment the control device is further configured to store the thus logged parameters.

The system I may comprise storage means 160 for storing the logged parameters. The storage means 160 may be any suitable unit for storing data representing thus logged parameters.

The control device 100 may comprise or be operably connectable to the storage means 160.

The storage means 160 may comprise internal storage means 162 arranged on-board the at least one vehicle. The internal storage means 162 may comprise any suitable computer, server unit, electronic control unit or the like.

The storage means 160 may comprise external storage means 164 arranged on an off-board system external to the at least one vehicle. The external storage means 162 may comprise any suitable computer, server unit, electronic control unit or the like.

According to an embodiment the control device is further configured to determine the efficiency of the required vehicle operation based on one or more of the thus stored logged parameters.

The system I may comprise vehicle operation efficiency determination means 170 based on one or more of the thus stored logged parameters.

According to an embodiment the control device 100 is configured to determine the efficiency of the required vehicle operation based on one or more of the thus stored logged parameters during said vehicle operation. According to an embodiment the control device 100 is configured to adapt vehicle operation efficiency during vehicle operation.

According to an embodiment the control device 100 is configured to determine the efficiency of the required vehicle operation based on one or more of the thus stored logged parameters after said vehicle operation.

The control device 100 may be configured to inform a vehicle operator about determined required vehicle operation to fulfil the policies According to an embodiment the system I comprises information means 180 arranged to inform a vehicle operator about determined required vehicle operation to fulfil the policies.

The information means 180 may comprise one or more display units. The one or more display units may comprise the display unit on the instrument panel of the vehicle, a heads up display unit, a display unit providing a display on the front windshield, a display on a smart phone and/or tablet of the operator of the vehicle or the like. The information means 180 may comprise audible information means. The audible information means may be a voice message, an alarm or the like. The information means 180 may comprise tactile information means. The tactile information means may comprise vibrations in the steering wheel, vibrations in the driver seat or the like in order to alert the vehicle operator.

According to an embodiment of the invention, the control device 100 is, via a link 10, operably connected to the zone determination means 110. According to an embodiment of the invention, the control device 100 is via the link 10 arranged to receive a signal from the means 110 representing data about one or more zones associated with vehicle axle load and/or vehicle weight policies relevant for the operation of the at least one vehicle.

According to an embodiment of the invention, the control device 100 is, via a link 12, operably connected to the zone information receiving unit 112. According to an embodiment of the invention, the control device 100 is via the link 12 arranged to receive a signal from the zone information receiving unit 112 representing data about one or more zones associated with vehicle axle load and/or vehicle weight policies relevant for the operation of the at least one vehicle.

According to an embodiment of the invention, the control device 100 is, via a link 14, operably connected to the zone detection arrangement 114. According to an embodiment of the invention, the control device 100 is via the link 14 arranged to receive a signal from the zone detection arrangement 114 representing data about one or more zones associated with vehicle axle load and/or vehicle weight policies relevant for the operation of the at least one vehicle.

According to an embodiment of the invention, the control device 100 is, via a link 16, operably connected to the vehicle position identification device 116. According to an embodiment of the invention, the control device 100 is via the link 16 arranged to receive a signal from the vehicle position identification device 116 representing data about the position of the vehicle.

According to an embodiment of the invention, the control device 100 is, via a link 17, operably connected to the time determination means 117. According to an embodiment of the invention, the control device 100 is via the link 17 arranged to receive a signal from the time determination means 117 representing data about current time.

According to an embodiment of the invention, the control device 100 is, via a link 18a, operably connected to the retrieving unit 118. According to an embodiment of the invention, the control device 100 is via the link 18a arranged to send a signal to the retrieving unit 118 representing data about position of the vehicle.

According to an embodiment of the invention, the control device 100 is, via a link 18b, operably connected to the retrieving unit 118. According to an embodiment of the invention, the control device 100 is via the link 18b arranged to send a signal to the retrieving unit 118 representing data about current time.

The retrieving unit 118 may be arranged to process the data about position of the vehicle and/or data about current time so as to determine one or more zones associated with vehicle axle load and/or vehicle weight policies relevant for the operation of the at least one vehicle.

According to an embodiment of the invention, the control device 100 is, via a link 18c, operably connected to the retrieving unit 118. According to an embodiment of the invention, the control device 100 is via the link 18c arranged to receive a signal from the retrieving unit 118 representing data about one or more zones associated with vehicle axle load and/or vehicle weight policies relevant for the operation of the at least one vehicle.

According to an embodiment of the invention, the control device 100 is, via a link 20, operably connected to the vehicle load determination means 120. According to an embodiment of the invention, the control device 100 is via the link 20 arranged to receive a signal from the vehicle load determination means 120 representing data about vehicle axle load and/or vehicle weight of the at least one vehicle.

According to an embodiment of the invention, the control device 100 is, via a link 22, operably connected to the vehicle load detection means 122. According to an embodiment of the invention, the control device 100 is via the link 22 arranged to receive a signal from the vehicle axle load detection means 122 representing data about detected vehicle axle load and/or vehicle weight of the at least one vehicle.

According to an embodiment of the invention, the control device 100 is, via a link 30a, operably connected to the policy fulfilment determination means 130. According to an embodiment of the invention, the control device 100 is via the link 30a arranged to send a signal to the policy fulfilment determination means 130 representing data about determined vehicle axle load and/or vehicle weight of the at least one vehicle.

According to an embodiment of the invention, the control device 100 is, via a link 30b, operably connected to the policy fulfilment determination means 130. According to an embodiment of the invention, the control device 100 is via the link 30b arranged to send a signal to the policy fulfilment determination means 130 representing data about vehicle axle load and/or weight policies associated with the at least one zone.

According to an embodiment of the invention, the control device 100 is, via a link 30c, operably connected to the policy fulfilment determination means 130. According to an embodiment of the invention, the control device 100 is via the link 30c arranged to receive a signal from the policy fulfilment determination means 130 representing data about required vehicle operation to fulfil the policies. The data may comprise data about which route that needs to be chosen in order to fulfil policies, and whether a different route than the planned router needs to be chosen in order to fulfil the policies. The data may comprise data about requirement of unloading/reducing vehicle weight in order to fulfil the policies. The data may comprise data about requirement to stop in order to fulfil, i.e. not violate, the policies.

According to an embodiment of the invention, the control device 100 is, via a link 40, operably connected to the external conditions determination means 140. According to an embodiment of the invention, the control device 100 is via the link 40 arranged to receive a signal from the external conditions determination means 140 representing data about external conditions in connection to the at least one vehicle during vehicle operation.

According to an embodiment of the invention, the control device 100 is, via a link 42, operably connected to the weather conditions determination means 142. According to an embodiment of the invention, the control device 100 is via the link 42 arranged to receive a signal from the weather conditions determination means 142 representing data about weather conditions in connection to the at least one vehicle during vehicle operation.

According to an embodiment of the invention, the control device 100 is, via a link 44, operably connected to the road conditions determination means 144. According to an embodiment of the invention, the control device 100 is via the link 44 arranged to receive a signal from the road conditions determination means 144 representing data about road conditions in connection to the at least one vehicle during vehicle operation.

According to an embodiment of the invention, the control device 100 is, via a link 50, operably connected to the vehicle operation efficiency determination means 150. According to an embodiment of the invention, the control device 100 is via the link 50 arranged to receive a signal from the vehicle operation efficiency determination means 150 representing data vehicle operation efficiency of the at least one vehicle during vehicle operation.

According to an embodiment of the invention, the control device 100 is, via a link 52, operably connected to the energy consumption determination means 152. According to an embodiment of the invention, the control device 100 is via the link 52 arranged to receive a signal from the energy consumption determination means 152 representing data about energy consumption of the at least one vehicle during vehicle operation.

According to an embodiment of the invention, the control device 100 is, via a link 54, operably connected to the wear determination means 154. According to an embodiment of the invention, the control device 100 is via the link 54 arranged to receive a signal from the wear determination means 154 representing data about wear of the at least one vehicle during vehicle operation.

According to an embodiment of the invention, the control device 100 is, via a link 60a, operably connected to the storage means 160. According to an embodiment of the invention, the control device 100 is via the link 60a arranged to send signals to the storage means 160 representing data for logged parameters comprising data for one or more of the logged parameters: determined vehicle axle load and/or vehicle weight; vehicle location; point of time; current vehicle axle load and/or vehicle weight policies, vehicle operation efficiency, current external vehicle operation conditions.

According to an embodiment of the invention, the control device 100 is, via a link 60b, operably connected to the storage means 160. According to an embodiment of the invention, the control device 100 is via the link 60b arranged to receive a signal from the storage means 160 representing data for stored logged parameters comprising data for one or more of the stored logged parameters: determined vehicle axle load and/or vehicle weight; vehicle location; point of time; current vehicle axle load and/or vehicle weight policies, vehicle operation efficiency, current external vehicle operation conditions.

According to an embodiment of the invention, the control device 100 is, via a link 70a, operably connected to the vehicle operation efficiency determination means 170. According to an embodiment of the invention, the control device 100 is via the link 70a arranged to send signals to the vehicle operation efficiency determination means 170 representing data for stored logged parameters comprising data for one or more of the stored logged parameters: determined vehicle axle load and/or vehicle weight; vehicle location; point of time; current vehicle axle load and/or vehicle weight policies, vehicle operation efficiency, current external vehicle operation conditions.

According to an embodiment of the invention, the control device 100 is, via a link 70b, operably connected to the vehicle operation efficiency determination means 170. According to an embodiment of the invention, the control device 100 is via the link 70b arranged to receive a signal from the vehicle operation efficiency determination means 170 representing data for vehicle operation efficiency. The data for vehicle operation efficiency may comprise data for whether the vehicle weight, e.g. due to a certain load, utilized for the at least one vehicle resulted in an efficient vehicle operation with regard to one or more of: costs, wear, time consumed, routes used.

The data for vehicle operation efficiency may comprise data for vehicle operation efficiency during drive of the vehicle so as to facilitate vehicle operation adaption during drive based on vehicle operation efficiency. Vehicle operation adaption may comprise re-routing, adaption of vehicle weight, distribution of vehicle weight to a relevant number of vehicle axles, change of vehicle or the like.

The data for vehicle operation efficiency may comprise data for vehicle operation efficiency after drive of the at least one vehicle, which may comprise collected data for several vehicles and/or for several occasions for the same vehicle as a basis for one or more of: costs, wear, time consumed, routes used. The data for vehicle operation efficiency may comprise data for whether vehicle axle load and/or vehicle weight policies relevant for the operation of the at least one vehicle where fulfilled during vehicle operation.

According to an embodiment of the invention, the control device 100 is, via a link 80, operably connected to the information means 180. According to an embodiment of the invention, the control device 100 is via the link 80 arranged to send a signal to the information means 180 representing data about determined required vehicle operation to fulfil the policies.

The control device 100 is according to an embodiment arranged to process the data about one or more zones associated with specific vehicle axle load policies relevant for the operation of the vehicle.

The control device 100 for determining vehicle operation of at least one vehicle is, according to an embodiment, adapted to perform the method M1 described below with reference to fig. 4.

Fig. 4 schematically illustrates a flow chart of a method M1 performed by a control device for determining vehicle operation of at least one vehicle according to an embodiment of the present invention.

According to the embodiment the method performed by a control device for determining vehicle operation of at least one vehicle comprises a step S1. In this step at least one zone associated with vehicle axle load and/or vehicle weight policies relevant for the operation of the at least one vehicle is determined. The at least one zone is according to an embodiment arranged to be determined by means of zone determination means, e.g. zone determination means 110 described with reference to according to fig. 3.

According to an embodiment of the method the at least one zone associated with vehicle axle load and/or vehicle weight policies relevant for the operation of the at least one vehicle comprises a geographical zone and/or a time zone.

According to the embodiment the method comprises a step S2. In this step a vehicle axle load and/or vehicle weight of the at least one vehicle is determined. The vehicle axle load and/or vehicle weight of the at least one vehicle is according to an embodiment arranged to be determined by vehicle load determination means, e.g. vehicle load determination means 120 described with reference to fig. 3.

According to the embodiment the method comprises a step S3. In this step a required vehicle operation to fulfil the policies is determined based on a comparison of the determined vehicle axle load and/or vehicle weight and the vehicle axle load and/or weight policies associated with the at least one zone. The required vehicle operation to fulfil the policies is according to an embodiment arranged to be determined by policy fulfilment determination means, e.g. policy fulfilment determination means 130 described with reference to fig. 3.

According to the embodiment the method comprises the step comparing the determined vehicle axle load and/or vehicle weight with the vehicle axle load and/or weight policies associated with the at least one zone so as to determine the required vehicle operation to fulfil the policies. The comparison may be performed by means of any suitable processor unit such as a control device, e.g. a control device in accordance with fig. 3.

According to an embodiment the method comprises the step of determining external vehicle operation conditions. The external vehicle operation conditions may comprise weather conditions and/or road conditions in connection to the at least one vehicle during vehicle operation. The external vehicle operation conditions is according to an embodiment arranged to be determined by means of external conditions determination means, e.g. external conditions determination means 140 described with reference to fig. 3.

According to an embodiment the method comprises the step of determining weather conditions in connection to the at least one vehicle during vehicle operation. The weather conditions is according to an embodiment arranged to be determined by means of weather conditions determination means, e.g. weather conditions determination means 142 described with reference to fig. 3.

According to an embodiment the method comprises the step of determining road conditions in connection to the at least one vehicle during vehicle operation. The road conditions is according to an embodiment arranged to be determined by means of road conditions determination means, e.g. road conditions determination means 144 described with reference to fig. 3.

According to an embodiment the method comprises the step of determining vehicle operation efficiency. The vehicle operation efficiency may comprise energy consumption for the at least one vehicle and/or wear for the at least one vehicle. The vehicle operation efficiency is according to an embodiment arranged to be determined by means of vehicle operation efficiency determination means, e.g. vehicle operation efficiency determination means 150 described with reference to fig. 3.

According to an embodiment the method comprises the step of determining energy consumption for the at least one vehicle during vehicle operation. The energy consumption is according to an embodiment arranged to be determined by means of energy consumption determination means, e.g. energy consumption determination means 152 described with reference to fig. 3.

According to an embodiment the method comprises the step of determining wear for the at least one vehicle during vehicle operation. The wear for the at least one vehicle is according to an embodiment arranged to be determined by means of wear determination means, e.g. wear determination means 154 described with reference to fig. 3.

According to an embodiment the method comprises the step of, during the required vehicle operation, logging one or more of the parameters: determined vehicle axle load and/or vehicle weight; vehicle location; point of time; current vehicle axle load and/or vehicle weight policies, vehicle operation efficiency, current external vehicle operation conditions, for subsequent vehicle operation monitoring.

According to an embodiment the method comprises the step of storing the thus logged parameters. The thus logged parameters is according to an embodiment arranged to be stored in a storage means, e.g. a storage means 160 a described with reference to fig. 3. The step of storing the thus logged parameters may comprise internal storing on-board the at least one vehicle and/or external storing off-board the at least one vehicle, e.g. on an external storage means of an off-board system.

According to an embodiment the method comprises the step of determining the efficiency of the required vehicle operation based on one or more of the thus stored logged parameters.

Vehicle operation efficiency may be determined with regard to one or more of: costs, wear, time consumed and routes used.

According to an embodiment of the method vehicle axle load/vehicle weight is adapted based on thus determined vehicle operation efficiency in order to improve vehicle operation efficiency for later vehicle operations and/or current vehicle operation.

Vehicle operation adaption may comprise re-routing, adaption of vehicle weight, change of vehicle or the like.

According to an embodiment of the method the step of determining the efficiency of the required vehicle operation based on one or more of the thus stored logged parameters is performed during and/or after said vehicle operation.

By determining vehicle operation efficiency during vehicle operation, vehicle operation efficiency may be adapted during vehicle operation/vehicle drive if required/desired. By determining vehicle operation efficiency after vehicle operation, vehicle operation efficiency may be adapted for other occasions by e.g. changing vehicle, adapting load, changing route or the like.

The method M1 performed by a control device for determining vehicle operation of at least one vehicle is according to an embodiment adapted to be performed by the system I described above with reference to fig. 3.

With reference to figure 5, a diagram of a computer 500/apparatus 500 is shown. The control device 100 described with reference to fig. 3 may according to an embodiment comprise apparatus 500. Apparatus 500 comprises a nonvolatile 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 determining vehicle operation of at least one vehicle.

The program P comprises routines for determining at least one zone associated with vehicle axle load and/or vehicle weight policies relevant for the operation of the at least one vehicle. The at least one zone associated with specific vehicle axle load policies relevant for the operation of the vehicle may comprise a geographical zone and/or a time zone. The program P may comprise routines for determining vehicle axle load and/or vehicle weight of the at least one vehicle. The program P may comprise routines for determining a required vehicle operation to fulfil the policies, based on a comparison of the determined vehicle axle load and/or vehicle weight and the vehicle axle load and/or weight policies associated with the at least one zone.

The program P comprises routines for, during the required vehicle operation, logging one or more of the parameters: determined vehicle axle load and/or vehicle weight; vehicle location; point of time; current vehicle axle load and/or vehicle weight policies, vehicle operation efficiency, current external vehicle operation conditions, for subsequent vehicle operation monitoring.

The program P comprises routines for storing the thus logged parameters.

The program P comprises routines for determining the efficiency of the required vehicle operation based on one or more of the thus stored logged parameters. The routines for determining the efficiency of the required vehicle operation based on one or more of the thus stored logged parameters is performed during and/or after said vehicle operation.

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 unit 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 may be used by apparatus 500 for determining at least one zone associated with vehicle axle load and/or vehicle weight policies relevant for the operation of the at least one vehicle. The signals received on data port 599 may be used by apparatus 500 for determining vehicle axle load and/or vehicle weight of the at least one vehicle. The signals received on data port 599 may be used by apparatus 500 for determining a required vehicle operation to fulfil the policies, based on a comparison of the determined vehicle axle load and/or vehicle weight and the vehicle axle load and/or weight policies associated with the at least one zone.

The signals received on data port 599 may be used by apparatus 500 for, during the required vehicle operation, logging one or more of the parameters: determined vehicle axle load and/or vehicle weight; vehicle location; point of time; current vehicle axle load and/or vehicle weight policies, vehicle operation efficiency, current external vehicle operation conditions, for subsequent vehicle operation monitoring.

The signals received on data port 599 may be used by apparatus 500 for storing the thus logged parameters.

The signals received on data port 599 may be used by apparatus 500 for determining the efficiency of the required vehicle operation based on one or more of the thus stored logged parameters. The signals used for determining the efficiency of the required vehicle operation based on one or more of the thus stored logged parameters is performed during and/or after said vehicle operation.

Parts of the methods described herein may 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 (M1) performed by a control device for determining vehicle operation of at least one vehicle (V1, V2, ..., VN), comprising the steps of: - determining (S1) at least one zone (Z1, Z2) associated with vehicle axle load and/or vehicle weight policies relevant for the operation of the at least one vehicle; - determining (S2) vehicle axle load and/or vehicle weight of the at least one vehicle; - determining (S3) a required vehicle operation to fulfil the policies, based on a comparison of the determined vehicle axle load and/or vehicle weight and the vehicle axle load and/or weight policies associated with the at least one zone (Z1, Z2) characterized in that: - during the required vehicle operation, logging one or more of the parameters: determined vehicle axle load and/or vehicle weight; vehicle location; point of time; current vehicle axle load and/or vehicle weight policies, vehicle operation efficiency; current external vehicle operation conditions, for subsequent vehicle operation monitoring. - storing the thus logged parameters, and - determining the efficiency of the required vehicle operation based on one or more of the thus stored logged parameters.

2. The method according to claim 1, wherein the step of determining the efficiency of the required vehicle operation based on one or more of the thus stored logged parameters is performed during and/or after said vehicle operation.

3. The method according to any of claims 1 -2, wherein the at least one zone (Z1, Z2) associated with certain vehicle axle load and/or vehicle weight policies relevant for the operation of the vehicle comprises a geographical zone (Z1) and/or a time zone (Z2).

4. A control device (100) for determining vehicle operation of at least one vehicle (V1, V2, ..., VN), the control device (100) being configured to: - determine (S1) at least one zone (Z1, Z2) associated with vehicle axle load and/or vehicle weight policies relevant for the operation of the at least one vehicle; - determine vehicle axle load and/or vehicle weight of the at least one vehicle; and determine a required vehicle operation to fulfil the policies, based on a comparison of the determined vehicle axle load and/or vehicle weight and the vehicle axle load and/or weight policies associated with the at least one zone (Z1, Z2), characterized in that: the control device (100) further being configured to log one or more of the parameters: determined vehicle axle load and/or vehicle weight; vehicle location; point of time; current vehicle axle load and/or vehicle weight policies, vehicle operation efficiency; current external vehicle operation conditions, for subsequent vehicle operation monitoring, the control device (100) further being configured to store the thus logged parameters, the control device (100) further being configured to determine the efficiency of the required vehicle operation based on one or more of the thus stored logged parameters.

5. The control device according to claim 4, wherein the control device (100) is configured to determine the efficiency of the required vehicle operation based on one or more of the thus stored logged parameters during and/or after said vehicle operation.

6. The control device according to any of claims 4-5, wherein the at least one zone (Z1, Z2) associated with certain vehicle axle load and/or vehicle weight policies relevant for the operation of the vehicle comprises a geographical zone (Z1) and/or a time zone (Z2).

7. A vehicle (1) comprising a control device (100) according to any of claims 4-6.

8. A computer program (P) for determining vehicle operation of at least one vehicle, said computer program (P) comprising program code which, when run on an control device (100) or another computer (500) connected to the control device (100), causes the control device to perform the steps according to claim 1-3.

9. A computer readable medium comprising instructions which, when executed by a computer, cause the computer to carry out the method according to anyone of claim 1-3.