WO2004037615A1

WO2004037615A1 - System and method for providing an input device in a vehicle information system

Info

Publication number: WO2004037615A1
Application number: PCT/US2003/033397
Authority: WO
Inventors: Michael D. Robarge; Michael Sims; Jon M. Skekloff; Gregory J. Sapletal; Joseph Strazanac
Original assignee: Johnson Controls Technology Company
Priority date: 2002-10-21
Filing date: 2003-10-21
Publication date: 2004-05-06
Also published as: AU2003280002A1

Abstract

A vehicle information system for displaying information and controlling systems associated with a vehicle includes a control circuit, a communication interface, a display, a first input device, and at least one configurable input device where the function of the configurable input device is variable. The control circuit is configured to transmit data to and/or from systems on the vehicle through the communication interface. The control circuit is further configured to provide a systems listing including the functionality and information available from the systems on the vehicle. The display is coupled to the control circuit and configured to display at least a portion of the systems listing in a navigable format. The first input device is coupled to the control circuit and configured to navigate through the systems listing. The current location in the systems listing defines a mode of the control circuit. The configurable input device is coupled to the control circuit and is configured to perform a function dependent on the mode.

Description

SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR PROVIDING AN INPUT DEVICE IJVI A VEHICLE INFORMATION SYSTEM

BACKGROUND

[0001] Vehicles are increasingly incorporating vehicle information systems to manage an increased amount of information being provided to a driver or passenger. A vehicle information system can be used to display information and operate functions for systems incorporated into a vehicle or provided as an add-on to a vehicle. Exemplary systems can include, but are not limited to, a compass/temperature display, a tire pressure display, trip information, contact information used in conjunction with a cellular phone system, geographical information used in conjunction with satellite tracking, etc.

[0002] The vehicle information system can be used as a source of data related to the vehicle by providing communication between the vehicle information system and the desired system. For example, information from vehicle systems can be transmitted over the vehicle bus to the vehicle information system.

[0003] A vehicle information system can provide the driver of a vehicle easy access to information from the vehicle's systems. To facilitate use of the information, the vehicle information system can be positioned within easy reach and in plain view of the driver's seat. However, positioning the information system near the driver means that the information system is positioned in an area of the vehicle that is already crowded with instruments and controls.

[0004] Further, as described above, vehicle information systems are more often utilized to handle an increasing variety of functions. The use and manipulation of the increasing number of functions requires more input and more varied input from the driver of the vehicle.

[0005] Accordingly, what is needed is a vehicle information system having a simple interface. Further, what is needed is a vehicle information system having a compact, easy to manipulate input function. Further, what is needed is a vehicle information system having an input function that can provide access to multiple, varied functions allowing a variety of operator inputs. Further, what is needed is a method for providing an indication of the functionality of an operator input that is easy to read and easy to understand. The teachings hereinbelow extend to those embodiments which fall within the scope of the detailed description, regardless of whether they accomplish one or more of the above-mentioned needs.

SUMMARY

[0006] According to an exemplary embodiment, a vehicle information system for displaying information and controlling systems associated with a vehicle includes a control circuit, a communication interface, a display, a first input device, and at least one configurable input device wherein the function of the configurable input device is variable. The control circuit is configured to transmit data to and/or from systems on the vehicle through the communication interface. The control circuit is further configured to provide a systems listing including the functionality and information available from the systems on the vehicle. The display is coupled to the control circuit and configured to display at least the systems listing or any portion thereof in a navigable format. The first input device is coupled to the control circuit and configured to enable navigation through the systems listing. The current location in the systems listing defines a mode of the control circuit. The configurable input device is coupled to the control circuit and is configured to perform a function dependent on the mode.

[0007] According to another exemplary embodiment, a method for operating a plurality of vehicle systems using a configurable input device includes the steps of receiving functionality information from vehicle systems, enabling navigation through the functionality information, providing a mode indicative of a current location in the functionality information, and providing a functionality to a configurable input device based on the current mode. [0008] According to yet another exemplary embodiment, a method for assigning a functionality to a configurable input device for a vehicle information system includes enabling navigating through a listing of functions available for a vehicle information system, receiving a selection of a function to be associated with the configurable input device, receiving a selection of a navigation state to be associated with the function, and associating the configurable input device with the function and the navigation state.

[0009] According to an exemplary embodiment, a vehicle information and control system includes a display, an operator input device, and a control circuit. The display is coupled to a vehicle interior element. The control circuit is coupled to the display, the operator-input device, and a wireless transmitter. The control circuit is configured to provide vehicle data to the display in response to actuation of the operator-input device. The control circuit is further configured to actuate the wireless transmitter in response to actuation of the operator-input device.

[0010] According to an alternative embodiment, the above- described vehicle information and control system is described where the operator input device includes a button, wherein, in a first mode, the control circuit is configured to provide vehicle data to the display in response to actuation of the operator input device and, in a second mode, the control circuit is configured to actuate the wireless transmitter in response to actuation of the button.

[001 1 ] According to another alternative embodiment, the above- described vehicle information and control system is described including a first mode and a second mode, wherein, in the first mode, the control circuit is configured to display a first function in the vicinity of the button and, in the second mode, the control circuit is configured to display a second function in the vicinity of the button.

[0012] According to yet another alternative embodiment, the above-described vehicle information and control system is described wherein the operator input device includes a plurality of buttons, wherein, in the first mode, the control circuit is configured to display a plurality of first functions in the vicinity of the plurality of buttons and, in the second mode, the control circuit is configured to display a second plurality of functions in the vicinity of the plurality of buttons.

[0013] According to yet another alternative embodiment, the vehicle information and control system is described including the first and second modes, further including the plurality of first functions, wherein the plurality of first functions relate to the wireless transmission of data from the wireless transmitter, wherein the plurality of second functions relate to the display of vehicle data. According to another alternative embodiment, the above-described vehicle information and control system, wherein the vehicle data is selected from the group consisting of vehicle heading point, point-of-interest data, navigation data, and engine data.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0014] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a vehicle having a vehicle information system including a configurable input according to an exemplary embodiment;

[0015] FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a vehicle information system coupled to a plurality of vehicle systems according to an exemplary embodiment;

[0016] FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating a vehicle information system according to an exemplary embodiment;

[0017] FIGs. 4A-4D are schematic diagrams illustrating a vehicle information system having a display and configurable input devices with configurable functionality according to an exemplary embodiment;

[0018] FIGs. 5A-5D are schematic views of data shown on a display for a vehicle information system including block diagrams representative of input devices for the vehicle information system according to an exemplary embodiment; [0019] FIG. 6 is a flowchart illustrating a method of customizing an input device provided for a vehicle information system according to an exemplary embodiment;

[0020] FIGs. 7-1 8 are schematic views of data shown on a display with associated block diagrams illustrating the operation of a vehicle information system including configurable input devices according to an exemplary embodiment; and

[0021] FIG. 1 9 is a photograph of a vehicle information system according to an exemplary embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS

[0022] Referring to FIG. 1 , a vehicle 1 1 0, which may be an automobile, truck, sport utility vehicle (SUV), mini-van, or other vehicle includes a vehicle information system 100. Vehicle information system 100, an exemplary embodiment of which is described below with reference to FIG. 3, is illustrated coupled to or mounted to an overhead console of vehicle 1 10. Alternatively, one or more of the elements of vehicle information system 1 00 may be coupled to or mounted to other vehicle interior elements, such as, a visor 1 20, an overhead console, or an instrument panel 1 30. Vehicle information system 1 00 can be implemented as a stand-alone system or as part of a vehicle computer.

[0023] Referring now to FIG. 2, vehicle information system 1 00 is illustrated coupled to a plurality of vehicle systems. Vehicle information system 1 00 can be coupled to the plurality of vehicle systems through a vehicle's communication bus, a wireless connection, a Bluetooth network, or any other connection for transferring data between system 1 00 and the plurality of vehicle systems. Vehicle information system 100 can be configured to permit communication to and/or from the plurality of vehicle systems.

[0024] The plurality of vehicle systems can include any of several types of add-on or installed systems for a vehicle, wherein each system includes differing functionality. According to an exemplary embodiment, the plurality of vehicle systems can include a communication system 210, a personal digital assistant (PDA) system 220, a trip computing system 230, a tire pressure monitoring system 240, and an engine control system 242.

[0025] Communication system 210 can be any type of external communication system in communication with vehicle information system 1 00 and capable of communication with an external system. For example, communication system 210 can be a cellular phone in communication with antennae for a local cellular system. Communication system 210 can include functionality to allow the cellular phone to be operated through vehicle information system 100. For example, according to an exemplary embodiment, a user can use vehicle information system 1 00 to place phone calls, access a stored directory, receive call logging information, receive caller ID information, etc. through communication system 210.

[0026] Personal digital assistant system 220 can include any type of personal digital assistant, such as a handheld computing device, capable of communication with vehicle information system 100. According to an exemplary embodiment, a user can upload and download information from vehicle information system 100 to personal digital assistant system 220. For example, a user can upload contact information from personal digital assistant system 220 to vehicle information system 100 for use with communication system 21 0.

[0027] Trip computing system 230 can be used for calculating, monitoring, and displaying information related to a vehicle origination, current location and destination. The information can include miles traveled, miles to destination, current longitude and latitude, or any other information. Trip computing system can further be coupled to an external information source such as a global positioning system (GPS). According to an exemplary embodiment, trip computing system 230 can be coupled to vehicle information system 100 such that system 230 can be operated through system 1 00. Examples of operation can include: setting a source or destination, scrolling through available point of interest information, displaying miles traveled, or any other functionality offer by trip computing system 230.

[0028] Tire pressure monitoring system 240 can include a system for monitoring the pressure of the tires associated with the vehicle and providing a warning where a problem is indicated. System 240 can be coupled to system 1 00 such that tire pressure monitoring system 240 can be operated and monitored through system 100. For example, a button can be actuated on system 100 to initiate a training method for tire pressure monitoring system 240 to indicate which tires are to be monitored.

[0029] Engine control system 242 can include a system for monitoring and displaying information related to the operation of the vehicle engine. The information can include malfunction or status indicators, oil condition sensors, fuel/air ratio data, or any other engine information. Engine control system 242 can be coupled to system 100 such that engine control system 242 can be operated and monitored through system 1 00. For example, a button can be actuated on system 100 to display the current oil condition status. ,

[0030] The description of the plurality of vehicle systems illustrates that the functionality and input required to manage information and provide functionality for vehicle systems can be variable. Advantageously, the systems can be coupled to a vehicle information system 1 00 having a configurable input such that the systems can be operated in a flexible, fully functional manner. The functionality provided by the system that can be accessed from the vehicle information system can be dependent dn at least three factors: the functionality of the system that can be operated remotely by the vehicle information system, the capabilities of the vehicle information system, and the preferences of the user.

[0031] Although the plurality of vehicle systems is shown as including the specific systems described above, the plurality of vehicle systems can include more, less, or variations of the included systems according to alternative embodiments. Additional systems can include, but are not limited to, a memo recording system or a temperature and compass monitoring system.

[0032] Referring to FIG. 3, vehicle information system 1 00 is illustrated according to an exemplary embodiment. Vehicle information system 100 includes a control circuit 250 configured to control the various portions of system 100, to store data in memory, to operate preprogrammed functionality, etc. Control circuit 250 may include various types of control circuitry, digital and/or analog, and may include a microprocessor, microcontroller, application- specific integrated circuit (ASIC), or other circuitry configured to perform various input/output, control, analysis, and other functions to be described herein.

[0033] Control circuit 250 is coupled to a communication interface 255. Communication interface 255 is further coupled to vehicle systems to enable data transmission between control circuit 250 and the vehicle systems. Communication interface 255 can be a connection to a vehicle's communication bus, a wireless transmitter and/or receiver, or any other interface capable of enabling the data transmission.

[0034] Control circuit 250 is further configured to maintain a listing of vehicle systems and, their associated functionality available through the vehicle systems. This listing can be obtained through control circuit software updates, hardware queries, user programming, or any other method. According to an exemplary embodiment, the listing is arranged in a hierarchical listing arranged primarily by vehicle system, and further arranged by functionality within each vehicle system. Alternative arrangements and organization of the listing can also be maintained.

[0035] Control circuit 250 is further coupled to a display 260. Display 260 may include any of a variety of display elements, such as a liquid crystal display (LCD), a vacuum florescent display (VFD), or other display elements.

[0036] Control circuit 250 is yet further coupled to a display navigation device 265. According to an exemplary embodiment, display navigation device 265 can be a multi-directional button. According to alternative embodiments, display navigation device 265 can be a plurality of buttons, defined areas on a touch screen, voice commands, or any other input for navigating the listing.

[0037] According to an exemplary embodiment, display navigation device 265 can be used in combination with display 260 to navigate through the functionality listing for the vehicle systems. The listing can be displayed on display 260 with an entry in the listing highlighted. The highlighted entry of the listing corresponds with a function for a vehicle system and the mode of control circuit 250 can be referred to as the "navigation state".

[0038] Control circuit 250 is yet further coupled to a configurable input device 270. Configurable input device 270 can be a button included on vehicle information system 1 00. According to an exemplary embodiment, the functionality of configurable input device 270 is dependent on the navigation state. For example, where the navigation state corresponds with contact information uploaded from a PDA, configurable input device 270 can be depressed to place a cellular call to that contact.

[0039] Configurable input device 270 can be positioned proximate to display 260 such that an area of display 260 can be associated with configurable input device 270. The associated area can be used to indicate the current functionality of configurable input device 270 based on the navigation state. For example, in the example above where the navigation state corresponds with contact information uploaded from a PDA and configurable input device 270 can be depressed to place a cellular call, the associated area can display "PLACE CALL".

[0040] Referring now to FIG. 4A, an exemplary vehicle information system 1 00 is shown as a unit for mounting in a vehicle overhead console. The vehicle information system can be mounted in any conventional fashion in a manner to provide coupling to vehicle systems. [0041] According to an exemplary embodiment, vehicle information system 1 00 can include a "HOME" key 310, a "VOICE" key 320, a "DISPLAY NAVIGATION" key 330, a display 340, a housing 350, and three configurable input devices, 360, 370, and 380, respectively,. Alternative embodiments of vehicle information system 100 can include more, less, or different configurations of keys, displays and housings.

[0042] Generally, vehicle information system 100 can be used to view and operate the functions provided by the installed and add-on systems associated with vehicle 1 10 as described in more detail below with reference to FIGs. 4B-D. According to an exemplary embodiment, vehicle information system 1 00 can display information and provide functionality related to the installed and add-on systems associated with vehicle 1 10 using a hierarchically driven menu system.

[0043] "HOME" key 31 0 can be a standard button included and appropriately labeled on vehicle information system 1 00. According to an alternative embodiment, "HOME" key 310 can be a switch, a pressure sensor, an area on a touch screen, or any other selection indicator. "HOME" key 310 can be used to return the user of vehicle information system 100 to a top level of the hierarchically driven menu system or a default menu otherwise selected by the user.

[0044] "VOICE" key 320 can also be a standard button included and appropriately labeled on vehicle information system 100. According to an alternative embodiment, "VOICE" key 320 can be a switch, a pressure sensor, an area on a touch screen, or any other selection indicator. "VOICE" key 320 can be used to enable a voice activated input system. According to a first embodiment, "VOICE" key 320 can be depressed and released to enable voice input. According to a second embodiment, voice input can be received only while "VOICE" key 320 is depressed.

[0045] "NAVIGATION" key 330 can be a multi-directional button included and appropriately labeled on vehicle information system 1 00. According to an alternative embodiment, "NAVIGATION" key 330 can be a joystick, a pressure sensor, an area on a touch screen, or any directional selection indicator. "NAVIGATION" key 330 can be used to navigate through the hierarchical menu displayed on display 340. For example, "NAVIGATION" key 330 can be pushed downward to scroll down through a list of functions displayed on display 340 until a desired function is highlighted. Thereafter, "NAVIGATION" key 330 could be pushed to the right to indicate a desire to select the highlighted item or enter a sub-hierarchical menu associated with the highlighted item. According to an alternative embodiment, "NAVIGATION" key 330 can be implemented using a plurality of buttons to accomplish the same navigation function.

[0046] Display 340 can be a liquid crystal display (LCD), a cathode ray tube (CRT), a vacuum fluorescent display (VFD), or any other type of visual display. Display 340 can be any type of display for displaying information related to the plurality of vehicle systems. According to an exemplary embodiment, display 340 can also display an indicator indicating a current function for configurable input devices 360, 370, and 380 as described in further detail with reference to FIGs. 4B-D.

[0047] Housing 350 can be any type of housing configured to contain vehicle information system 100 and its components. Housing 350 can be configured to conform to a variety of positioning points within a vehicle interior such as an overhead console, a floor console, a visor, or a dashboard. Housing 350 can be further configured to match a variety of interior design schemes.

[0048] Configurable input devices 360, 370, and 380 can be buttons included on vehicle information system 1 00. According to an exemplary embodiment, configurable input devices 360, 370, and 380 can be positioned on vehicle information system 100 such that each of configurable input devices 360, 370, and 380 is associated with a defined area of display 340 used to indicate the functionality for that particular configurable input device. According to an alternative embodiment, configurable input devices 360, 370 and 380 can include a small LCD screen or other display positioned at the top of the button under a protective covering to display the current function of the key. According to yet another alternative embodiment, configurable input devices 360, 370, and 380 can be implemented as a touch screen portion of display 340. Alternative configurations can include any system or combination of system where a user can make a selection using one or a plurality of input devices whose functionality is dependent on the positioning of a user within a menu system. The interrelation and operability of display 340 and configurable input devices 360, 370, and 380 is described with more detail with reference to FIGs. 4B-D.

[0049] Referring now to FIG. 4B, FIG 4B is a block diagram 400 of vehicle information system 100 where display 340 is displaying an exemplary top level screen 41 0. Top level screen 410 includes a listing 41 1 that lists the plurality of vehicle systems and associated functionality that are accessible using system 1 00. According to an exemplary embodiment, listing 41 1 can list a subset of the available systems as shown in FIG. 4A and provide an indicator 41 2 indicating that additional listing items can be displayed by moving a highlighted portion 41 3 downward or upward to the bottom of the displayed listing using "NAVIGATION" key 330.

[0050] Top level screen 410 can further include an area 414 associated with configurable input device 360, an area 41 5 associated with configurable input device 370, and an area 41 6 associated with configurable input device 380. According to an exemplary embodiment, in the top level screen 410, configurable input device 360, 370, and 380 can be associated with an RF transmitter system such as the HOMELINK^® trainable transceiver manufactured by Johnson Controls Interiors, LLC of Holland, Ml. Input device 360 can be configured to initiate transmission of a first control signal to control a garage door opener. Input devices 370 and 380 can be configured to initiate transmission of second and third signals to control other devices, such home lighting, a security gate, a security system, home appliances, or any other device configured to be operated based upon receipt of a transmitted signal. As shown in FIG. 4A, top level screen 41 0 can display in area 41 4 that configurable input device 360 is associated with the HOMELINK^® device number one. The same information can be displayed in areas 41 5 and 41 6 for configurable input devices 370 and 380 respectively.

[0051 ] FIG. 4B shows highlighted portion 41 3 highlighting the communication system 210 associated with vehicle 1 1 0. "NAVIGATION" key 330 can be used to select the highlighted function or to move upwards or downwards through listing 41 1 . When "Communication" is highlighted and the "NAVIGATION" key 330 is used to select the highlighted function, a communication screen 421 can be displayed as shown in FIG. 4C.

[0052] Referring now to FIG. 4C, FIG 4C is a block drawing of vehicle information system 1 00 where display 340 is displaying an exemplary communication screen 421 associated with communication system 210. According to an exemplary embodiment, communication screen 421 can be directly linked to a stored address book. Accordingly, communication screen 421 can include a listing 422 of contacts listed in the stored address book including a highlighted listing 423. The listing can be a partial listing and can be navigated using "NAVIGATION" key 330.

[0053] As shown in FIG. 4C, the information displayed in areas 41 4, 41 5, and 41 6 has changed to indicate new functionality associated with configurable input devices 360, 370, and 380 based upon the location in the hierarchical structure. For example, "Smith, Anne" is currently highlighted. First area 41 4 is used to indicate that configurable input device 360 can be depressed to place a call to Anne Smith's home phone number. Second area 41 5 is used to indicate that configurable input device 370 can be depressed to place a call to Anne Smith's work phone number. First area 41 6 is used to indicate that configurable input device 380 can be depressed to place a call to Anne Smith's cellular phone number.

[0054] Advantageously, functionality provided by communication system 210 can easily be accessed and utilized using the configurable input devices. Although an exemplary display screen and method for accessing communication system 21 0 is shown and described, it would be obvious to one skilled in the art that the display screen and configurable input devices can be modified to provide the same advantages for a variety of functions and methods of access.

[0055] Referring now to FIG. 4D, FIG 4D is a block diagram of vehicle information system 1 00 where display 340 is displaying an exemplary PDA screen 431 associated with personal digital assistant system 220. According to an exemplary embodiment, PDA screen 431 is a menu screen including a listing 432 of a plurality of functions associated with personal digital assistant system 220. PDA screen 431 is a mid-level hierarchical screen. In a mid-level hierarchical screen configurable hotkeys 360, 370 and 380 can be disabled such that no functionality is provide if the buttons are depressed. This is desirable when an associated system is complex and several buttons may need to be depressed before a screen providing system functionality is to be displayed. Accordingly, in a mid-level hierarchical screen, area 414, 41 5, and 41 6 can remain blank. According to an alternative embodiment, configurable input devices 360, 370 and 380 can provide links to commonly used or user-defined navigation states.

[0056] Providing configurable input devices where the functionality of the key can be changed based on a position in a hierarchical menu minimizes the number of buttons that are required to perform a variety of functions associated with a variety of systems. Configurable input devices can be used to access functions provided in a variety of systems that are as complicated or a simple as necessary.

[0057] Referring now to FIG. 5A, FIG. 5A is a screen 500 of a display for a vehicle information system 100 including block diagrams representative of input devices for vehicle information system 1 00 according to an exemplary embodiment. Screen 500 illustrates a menu key 502, a voice key 504, a first configurable input device 506, a second configurable input device 508, and a third configurable input device 510. These keys and input device provide a function similar to the function associated with similarly named keys and device described with reference to FIG. 4A. Screen 500 further illustrates a plurality of navigation keys 520. Plurality of navigation keys 520 can include a "BACK" key 522, a rocker switch 524, and a "SELECT" key 526. "BACK" key 522 is configured to allow a user to return to a previously displayed screen. Rocker switch 524 is configured to allow a user to scroll upwards or downwards through the information displayed on a display 530 dependent on the direction in which the rocker switch is depressed. "SELECT" key 526 can be used to select a highlighted item displayed in display 530. Display 530 can be any type of display as described above with reference to display 340 in FIG. 4A. Display 530 includes a first area 532 associated with configurable input device 506, a second area 534 associated with second configurable input device 508, and a third area 536 associated with third configurable input device 510. Display 530 further includes a text area 538 where information is displayed for communication to a driver.

[0058] According to an exemplary embodiment, FIG. 5A shows vehicle information system 1 00 in a Heading/Compass mode where a heading and destination location is shown in text area 538. In this mode, first area 532, second area 534, and third area 536 are display areas that are used to indicate that configurable input device 506, 508, and 51 0 are associated with Homelink^® devices located at the listed destination, described above with reference to FIG. 4B.

[0059] Referring now to FIG. 5B, FIG. 5B is a screen and block diagram illustrating vehicle information system 1 00 in a Navigation mode according to an exemplary embodiment. In Navigation mode, information related to the current location of the vehicle is displayed for reference by the driver. In this mode, first configurable input 506, second configurable input 508, and third configurable input 510 are configured to provide a sorting function for information in a point-of-interest menu displayed in text area 538. According to an exemplary embodiment, first configurable input 506 can be associated with a sort function based on the nearest available gas station. Accordingly, as shown in FIG. 5B, < first area 532 can display the word "GAS" to indicate the function of first configuration input 506. Similarly, second area 534 can be used to display the word "FOOD" to indicate that second configurable input 508 can be depressed to sort the point-of-interest menu according to available restaurants. Third area 536 can be configured to display the word "LODGES" to indicate that third configurable input 510 can be depressed to sort the point-of-interest menu according to available lodging.

[0060] Referring now to FIG. 5C, FIG. 5C is a screen and block diagram illustrating vehicle information system 1 00 in a text entry mode according to an exemplary embodiment. Navigation keys 520 can be used to select and enter text into vehicle information system 1 00. In text entry mode, configurable input devices 506, 508, and 51 0 can be used to facilitate text entry navigation. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 5C, first configurable input device 506 can be used to access a previous entry. In text entry mode, first area 532, second area 534, and third area 536 can be configured to display the functionality of configurable input devices 506, 508, and 510.

[0061 ] Referring now to FIG. 5D, vehicle information system 1 00 is shown in a variable manipulation mode according to an exemplary embodiment. In the variable manipulation mode, variables associated with vehicle information system 1 00 or associated vehicle systems can be modified according to the preferences of the user. In the variable manipulation mode, configurable input devices 506, 508, and 510 can be configured to modify an existing variable. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 5D, first configurable input device 506 can be use to reset the current variable to a default value. The functionality associated with configurable input devices 506, 508, and 51 0 can be displayed in first, second, and third areas 532, 534, and 536, respectively.

[0062] FIG. 6 is a flowchart 600 indicating a method of associating a function from a system in communication with vehicle information system 1 00 with configurable input devices according to an exemplary embodiment. In a step 61 0, a user uses the navigation functionality for vehicle information system 1 00 to navigate through available systems to a display screen to the system where the input device functionality is to be added. The user can scroll to any screen where the input device functionality is desired. Once the proper screen is accessed, the user can view the current input device associations and select a input device to be trained in a step 620.

[0063] Once the input device to be trained is selected, the user can enter training mode in a step 630. The user can enter training mode using any method provided by system 100. For example, according to an exemplary embodiment, a user can enter training mode by pushing and holding depressed the input device to be trained for some predefined interval, such as 10 seconds. Once the user has indicated the desire to train a input device, a training mode indicator can be displayed on display 340.

[0064] Upon entering training mode, a step 640 can be performed where all of the functions associated with the screen selected in step 610 are listed. For example, where the user has selected communication system 21 0, functions such as "PLACE CALL", "ADD CONTACT", "DELETE CONTACT", or "DISPLAY CALL LOG" can be displayed. Optionally, the functions already associated with input devices not selected for training can be excluded from the listing of available functions. The user can scroll through the listing of available function using "NAVIGATION" key 330 to highlight the function to be associated with the selected input device. Thereafter "NAVIGATION" key 330 can be used to select the highlighted function in a step 650.

[0065] Once a function has been associated with the selected input device, training mode can be exited in a step 660. Training mode can be exited automatically following selection of the function in step 650 or after a verification of the desire to train the selected input device with the selected function. Alternatively, the user can be prompted to ascertain whether additional input device training is desired for the screen selected in step 61 0. [0066] Referring now to FIG.7, FIG. 7 is a block diagram 700 illustrating vehicle information system 100 according to an alternative embodiment. Vehicle information system 1 00 includes "FEATURE" key 701 that operates similar to "HOME" key 310, described with reference to FIG. 4A, and "VOICE" key 320 also described above with reference to FIG. 4A.

[0067] Block diagram 700 further includes a "PHONE" key 705. . "PHONE" key 705 can be used to directly access a cellular phone system associated with vehicle information system 1 00. Additionally, "PHONE" key 705 can be depressed to answer an incoming call.

[0068] Block diagram 700 further includes a set of navigation keys 71 0. Set of navigation keys 71 0 performs essentially the same function as "NAVIGATION" key 330 according to an alternative embodiment.

[0069] Block diagram 700 further includes a display screen 71 5 similar to display screen 340 described above with reference to FIG. 4A. Display screen 750 can be used to indicate that vehicle information system 100 is currently in a feature level mode. In feature level mode, display 71 5 can be used to provide a listing 720 of available systems accessible through vehicle information system 1 00. According to an exemplary embodiment, listing 720 can be a navigable listing that includes a compass/temp system, a traveler system, a personal digital assistant (PDA) interface system, a travel note system, a point-of- interest system, and a preferences setting system. Listing 720 can be used to display all or a portion of the included systems in a navigable format such that a single entry in the listing is highlighted and the highlighted portion can be moved upward or downward using set of navigation keys 710. Where only a portion of the available systems are shown in the listing, an arrow 725 can be displayed indicating that the user can scroll downward to display additional systems. The user can select a desired system functionality by depressing a "SELECT" key in set of navigation keys 71 0 while the desired system is highlighted.

[0070] Block diagram 700 illustrates a phone LED 702 used to indicate a wireless connection has been made to a cellular phone. Block diagram 700 further includes a PDA LED 704 used to indicate a wireless connection to a PDA.

[0071 ] Where compass/temp system is selected from the listing of available systems 720, a compass/ temperature display screen 800 can be displayed as shown in FIG. 8. Compass/temperature display screen 800 can include a current heading 805, a temperature 810, a current time 81 5, and a date 820.

[0072] Where the traveler system is selected from the listing of available systems 720, a traveler screen 900 can be displayed as shown in FIG. 9. According to an exemplary embodiment, a system can include a single display screen or a single function, or a system can provide multiple information screens and/or functions display using a menu screen. Where multiple systems or screens are available, links to those systems can be provided through the configurable input devices. The function of the configurable input device can be displayed in the area of the display screen associated with the particular configurable input device. For example, screens available from traveler system display screen 900 can include a fuel economy screen, a tire pressure screen, an oil-monitoring screen, and a trip computer screen.

[0073] According to an exemplary embodiment, the configurable input devices can be associated with display screens not currently viewed. To illustrate, as shown in FIG. 9, a fuel economy display screen 91 0 is currently being displayed. Fuel economy display screen 91 0 can be used to display a distance to empty 91 1 , an average fuel economy 91 2, and an instantaneous fuel economy 91 3. A first configurable input device 91 5 can be configured to link the user to a tire-pressure monitoring screen, a second configurable input device 920 can be used to link the user to an oil-monitoring display screen, and a third configurable input device 925 can be used to link the user to a trip computing screen. The tire-pressure display screen can be used to indicate the current tire pressure for all tires available on the vehicle. The oil-pressure-monitoring screen can be used to indicate the current oil pressure, indicate the mileage remaining until an oil change is due, and indicate the calendar time remaining until an oil change is due. The trip-computing screen can be used to indicate the distance traveled from vehicle ignition and the time elapsed from vehicle ignition.

[0074] Referring now to FIG. 1 0, when the PDA INTERFACE system is selected from listing 720, an initial PDA assistant screen 1 000 is displayed. Initial PDA assistant screen 1 000 can include a listing 101 0 including the functionality available within the PDA INTERFACE system. The listing 1 01 0 can include a contacts list function, a navigation function, a calendar function, and a transfer data function.

[0075] When the contacts function is selected, a listing of all available contacts previously uploaded or manually enter into vehicle information system 1 00 is displayed. The listing can be displayed in a single long listing or alternatively, an alphanumeric listing screen can be displayed which can be used to select all contact entries beginning with a specific alphanumeric character.

[0076] Referring now to FIG. 1 1 , a contacts list display screen 1 1 00 is displayed where the contacts list function has been selected from initial PDA assistant screen 1000, either directly of indirectly through an alphanumeric menu. In contacts list display screen 1 1 00, a list of contacts 1 1 05 is displayed. List of contacts 1 105 can include a single highlighted contact 1 1 10. First, second, and third configurable input devices can be used to actuate functionality related to the highlighted contact 1 1 10. A first configurable input device 1 1 1 5 can be used to place a call to the highlighted contact. A second configurable input device 1 1 20 can be used to run a navigation system to provide a mapping from a current location to an address associated with the currently highlighted contact 1 1 10. A third configurable input device 1 1 25 can be used to display information related to the currently highlighted contact 1 1 10.

[0077] Contacts list display screen 1 1 00 can include a first area of the display screen 1 1 30 associated with the first configurable input device 1 1 1 5, a second area of the display screen 1 1 30 associated with the second configurable input device 1 1 20, and a third area of the display screen 1 1 40 associated with the third configurable input device 1 1 1 5. First area of the display screen 1 1 30 can include an indicator that a call function is associated with first configurable input device 1 1 1 5. Second area of the display screen 1 1 35 can include an indicator that a navigation function is associated with second configurable input device 1 1 20. Third area of the display screen 1 140 can include an indicator that an information function is associated with third configurable input device 1 1 25.

[0078] According to an exemplary embodiment, when a single phone number is associated with the contact, depression of first configurable input device 1 1 1 5 can initiate a phone call using communication system 21 0. When multiple phone numbers are associated with highlighted contact 1 1 1 0 a call screen 1 200 associated with highlighted contact 1 1 1 0 can be displayed as shown in FIG. 1 2. Call screen 1 200 can include a first configurable input device 1 205 configured to place a call to a home phone number, a second configurable input device 1 210 configured to place a call to a work phone number, and a third configurable input device 1 21 5 configured to place a call to a cellular phone number. A text area 1 1 20 of call screen 1 200 can be used to indicate the functionality of the call screen and the functionality of the configurable input devices as indicated in FIG. 1 2.

[0079] When a phone call is made using vehicle information system 1 00 a call in place screen 1 300 can be displayed as shown in FIG. 1 3. Call in place screen 1 300 can include an informational area 1 305 indicating a name of the contact that was called 1 306, a phone number of the contact that was called 1 307, a call length of the current phone call 1 308, and a phone signal level 1 309. For call screen 1300, a first configurable input device 1 31 0 can be configured to end the current phone call. A second configurable input device 131 5 can be used to initiate a recording function. A third configurable input device 1 320 can be used to access an information screen showing stored information associated with the current contact in the current phone call. [0080] When a phone call is received prior to termination of a current phone call, a call-waiting screen 1 400 can be displayed as shown in FIG. 14. Call waiting screen 1400 can include an information display area 1405 configured to display information related to the incoming call. For example, information display area 1 405 can be used to display a name of the incoming call 1 410 and an originating telephone number of the incoming call 1 41 5. According to an exemplary embodiment, call waiting screen 1400 can include a first configurable input device 1 420 configured to accept the incoming call and place the current call in a standby mode, a second configurable input device 1425 configured to terminate the incoming call, and a third configurable input device 1 430 configured to terminate the current phone call and accept the new incoming call.

[0081 ] Referring again to FIG. 1 1 , when second configurable input device 1 1 20 is actuated a navigation screen 1 500 can be displayed as shown in FIG. 1 5. When a single address is associated with the selected contact, navigation screen 1 500 can be used to display directions in a text area 1 505 to the address associated with the selected contact. When multiple addresses are associated with the selected contact, text area 1 505 can be used to display instructions to select a desired address associated with the selected contact. When multiple addresses are associated with the selected contact, a first configurable input device 1 510 can be associated with a home address and a second configurable device 1 520 can be associated with a work address.

[0082] Referring again to FIG. 10, when a navigation system is selected from initial PDA assistant screen 1 000, a navigation function screen 1 600 can be displayed as shown in FIG. 1 6. Navigation function screen 1 600 can list the functions available through a navigation system associated with vehicle information system 1 00. For example, navigation function screen 1 600 can be used to access information related to planned trips, guidance to a specific destination, or an address odometer listing the distance traveled from a given address. [More information needed] [0083] Referring again to FIG. 7, when a travel note system is selected a travel note screen 1 700 can be displayed as shown in FIG. 1 7. A travel note system can be used in conjunction with a recording function provided by vehicle information system 100. The recording function can allow the user of vehicle information system 100 to press a button on vehicle information system 1 00 to begin a recording for storage on information associated with vehicle information system 1 00. The user can press a second button to end the recording and store the recorded note in memory associated with the vehicle information system 1 00. Travel note screen 1 700 can include a listing 1 701 of recordings currently stored in memory. A recording entry 1 705 can include a recording date 1 706, a recording time of day 1 707, and a length of recording time 1 708. For travel note screen 1700, a first configurable input device 1 710 can be associated with a record function, a second configurable input device 1 71 5 can be associated with a play function, and a third configurable input device 1 720 can be associated with a delete function to remove a stored recording from memory.

[0084] Referring again to FIG. 7, when a preferences setting system is selected, a preferences display screen 1 800 can be displayed as shown in FIG. 1 8. Preferences display screen 1 800 and listed preference-setting selections can be used to set preferences for systems associated with a vehicle information system 1 00. These systems can include settings for a compass, a time of day, a cellular phone, a PDA, a vehicle, a tire pressure sensing system, HOMELINK, a region, and an advisor. The user can set preferences for storage in memory associated with vehicle information system 1 00 to customize the functionality and appearance of display screen 340 for vehicle information system 1 00.

[0085] Referring now to FIG. 1 9, FIG. 1 9 is a digital photo illustrating vehicle information system 100 according an exemplary embodiment. Vehicle information system 100 in FIG. 1 9 is shown as including a home key 31 0, a first configurable input device 360, a second configurable input device 370, a third configurable input device 380, a voice key 320, a display 340, and a housing 350, described above with reference to FIG. 4A. Vehicle information system 100 further includes a navigation device 1 905 which is similar to navigation key 330 described above with reference to FIG. 4A.

[0086] While the exemplary embodiments illustrated in the FIGS. and described above are presently preferred, it should be understood that these embodiments are offered by way of example only. For example, although the vehicle information system is described as being used with specific additional vehicle systems, any type of additional system providing any of a variety of functions could be accessed and operated using the configurable input devices. Accordingly, the present invention is not limited to a particular embodiment, but extends to various modifications that nevertheless fall within the scope of the appended claim.

Claims

WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1 . A vehicle information system for displaying information and controlling systems associated with a vehicle, comprising: a communication interface; a control circuit configured to communicate with systems on the vehicle through the communication interface, and further configured to provide a systems listing including functions and information available through systems on the vehicle; a display coupled to. the control circuit and configured to display at least a portion of the systems listing; a first input device coupled to the control circuit and configured to enable navigation through the systems listing wherein a current location in the systems listing defines a mode for the control circuit; and at least one configurable input device coupled to the control circuit and configured to enable selection of a function to be performed or information to be displayed based on the mode.

2. The vehicle information system of claim 1 , wherein the vehicle information system further includes a wireless transmitter coupled to the control circuit.

3. The vehicle information system of claim 2, wherein the control circuit is configured to actuate the wireless transmitter in response to actuation of the configurable input device.

4. The vehicle information system of claim 2, wherein the configurable input device includes a button wherein, in a first mode, the control circuit is configured to provide vehicle information to the display in response to actuation of the button and, in a second mode, the control circuit is configured to actuate the wireless transmitter in response to actuation of the button.

5. The vehicle information system of claim 4, wherein, in the first mode, the control circuit is configured to display a first indication of a first function in the vicinity of the button and, in the second mode, the display is configured to display a second indication of a second function in the vicinity of the button.

6. The vehicle information system of claim 4, wherein the control circuit is configured to perform a plurality of functions based upon selection of the first or second function.

7. The vehicle information system of claim 1 , wherein the configurable input device includes a plurality of buttons and wherein, in a first mode, the control circuit is configured to display a plurality of first functions in the vicinity of the plurality of buttons and, in a second mode, the display is configured to display a plurality of second functions in the vicinity of the plurality of buttons.

8. The vehicle information system of claim 1 , wherein the display is coupled to a vehicle interior element.

9. The vehicle information system of claim 8, wherein the vehicle interior element is an overhead console, a visor, or an instrument panel.

1 0. A method for operating a plurality of vehicle systems using a configurable input device, comprising: receiving functionality information related to systems on a vehicle; enabling navigation through the functionality information; providing a mode indicative of a current location in the functionality information; and providing a functionality to at least one configurable input device based on the mode.

1 1 . The method of claim 10, wherein enabling navigation through the functionality information includes displaying the functionality information in a hierarchical listing and receiving an instruction to move up, down, forward, or backward through the hierarchical listing.

1 2. The method of claim 10, wherein the functionality information is at least a partial listing of the functions or information available through the vehicle systems.

1 3. The method of claim 1 2, wherein providing a mode indicative of a current location in the functionality. information includes providing a vehicle system associated with the current location in the functionality information.

1 4. The method of claim 10, further including receiving a selection of a functionality based on actuation of the configurable input device.

1 5. The method of claim 14, wherein the functionality includes transmitting a wireless control signal using a wireless transmitter on the vehicle.

1 6. The method of claim 10, further including displaying an indication of the functionality for the configurable input device in a location proximate to the configurable input device.

1 7. The method of claim 10, wherein the functionality includes multiple functions.

1 8. A method for assigning a functionality to a configurable input device for a vehicle information system, comprising: enabling navigation through a listing of functions available through a vehicle information system; receiving a selection of a function to be associated with the configurable input device; receiving a selection of a navigation state to be associated with the function; and associating the configurable input device with the function and the navigation state.

1 9. The method of claim 1 8, wherein enabling navigation through a listing of functions includes displaying the listing of functions in a hierarchical listing and receiving a command to move up, down, forward, or backward through the hierarchical listing.

20. The method of claim 1 8, further including configuring the configurable input device to perform the selected function when the configurable input device is actuated while the vehicle information system is in the selected navigation state.

21 . The method of claim 1 8, wherein the selected function includes transmitting a wireless control signal using a wireless transmitter on the vehicle.

22. The method of claim 1 8, further including displaying an indication of the selected function for the configurable input device in a location proximate to the configurable input device while the vehicle information system is in the selected navigation state.

23. The method of claim 1 8, wherein the selected function includes multiple functions.