WO2018223234A1

WO2018223234A1 - Virtual instrument cluster system for a motorcycle

Info

Publication number: WO2018223234A1
Application number: PCT/CA2018/050680
Authority: WO
Inventors: Patrick Collet
Original assignee: Patrick Collet
Priority date: 2017-06-07
Filing date: 2018-06-06
Publication date: 2018-12-13

Abstract

A virtual instrument cluster system for a motorcycle. The system includes a hardware unit configured to be connected to the mobile electronic device, which is in communication with one or more of the motorcycle systems. The hardware unit is in communication with the display to provide information about the motorcycle systems. Optionally, a cloud-based web server is in communication with the mobile electronic device and is configured to transmit and receive real-time data to and from the mobile electronic device. Also, provide are kits for providing the virtual instrument cluster system.

Description

VIRTUAL INSTRUMENT CLUSTER SYSTEM FOR A MOTORCYCLE

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present relates to motorcycle instrument clusters, and more particularly to a virtual instrument cluster system for a motorcycle.

BACKGROUND

[0002] Mobile electronic devices such as smart phones and tablets are now commonplace and generally carried everywhere we go. Smart phones can now be used in lieu of house keys, camera, GPS and credit cards; they can also be used to monitor our health and sleep patterns. They have become ubiquitous and an essential part of our everyday lives.

[0003] However, while seemingly the new panacea, smart phones are still either impractical or indeed impossible to connect to a lot of things. Moreover, when a smartphone does connect, that connection is sometimes lost thereby potentially resulting in the loss of important information.

[0004] One area where smart phones could be used to great advantage is in the field of motorcycles. Typically, because of space restrictions, a motorcycle generally has a limited number of gauges. Moreover, there remains a standard for low technology still, such as keys and analog gauges. Since motorcycles are generally closed machines, they do not communicate with other machines or devices. Once the rider mounts the motorcycle, he/she is essentially isolated from the rest of the world.

[0005] Furthermore, because space available and rider attention are limited, the motorcycle rider is often unaware of all the motorcycle systems, or indeed, on long rides, important data is being lost for failure to communicate it to the rider, or if the rider is trying to navigate busy streets the information does not get his attention. On the other hand, there is also nowadays the tendency to overwhelm users with too much information. [0006] With the advent of the smart phone, one solution is to add the phone on to the handlebars. This is clearly impractical and creates more problems than it solves Some riders have found that putting the smart phone on a handlebar mount helps but this generally limits the user to it being merely a phone with a GPS app, which sends the rider notifications for email and texts. This then creates dangerous distractions.

[0007] Thus, there is a need for an instrument cluster than can be used with a motorcycle to provide information in a reliably useful manner.

BRIEF SUMMARY

[0008] We have now designed a system that significantly reduces, or essentially eliminates, the problems discussed above. To achieve this, we have designed a new and ubiquitous virtual instrument cluster system in which a mobile electronic device such as a smart phone or tablet is mounted in lieu of a motorcycle cluster to provide the rider with real time data both wired and wireless.

[0009] An object of the present invention is to provide a virtual instrument cluster system for a motorcycle. In accordance with an aspect of the invention, there is provided a virtual instrument cluster system for a motorcycle, the system comprising a hardware unit connectable to a mobile electronic device, the hardware unit capable of communication with one or more motorcycle systems, wherein upon connection to the mobile electronic device and the motorcycle, the mobile electronic device is operable to displays information about the one or more motorcycle systems. In some embodiments, the system upon connection to the mobile electronic device is configured for communication with a cloud-based web server, wherein the cloud-based web server transmits and receives data to and from the mobile electronic device.

[00010] In accordance with another aspect of the invention, there is provided a virtual instrument cluster system for a motorcycle, the system comprising a mobile electronic device having a display connected to a processor and a non- transient memory; and a hardware unit connected to the mobile electronic device and in communication with one or more motorcycle systems, wherein the hardware unit is operable to display information about the one or more motorcycle systems on the mobile electronic device, optionally the system is configured for communication with a cloud-based web server, wherein the cloud- based web server transmits and receives data to and from the mobile electronic device. Optionally, the cloud-based web server transmits and receives data in real-time.

[00011] In some examples, the hardware unit is configured to be hardwired to the one or more motorcycle systems. In alternative examples, the hardware unit is configured to be reversibly connected to the one or more motorcycle systems, optionally the reversible connections are plug and play connections.

[00012] In some examples, the hardware unit is configured to be hardwired to the mobile electronic device. In alternative examples, the hardware unit is configured to be reversibly connected to the mobile electronic device, optionally the reversible connections are plug and play connections. Connection to the mobile electronic device may be by wireless connection including by Bluetooth® and Near Field Communication (NFC)".

[00013] In some examples, the system is configured to charge the mobile electronic device by operatively connecting it to the motorcycle battery. Optionally, the connect is a via a USB port.

[00014] In some example, the hardware unit is wirelessly connected to the mobile electronic device. Optionally, the hardware unit is bidirectionally wirelessly connected to the mobile electronic device.

[00015] In some example, the mobile electronic device is a smart phone. Alternatively, the mobile electronic device is a tablet.

[00016] In some example, the hardware unit is mounted on the motorcycle and located to receive the mobile electronic device.

[00017] In one example, a case is mounted on the hardware unit to receive therein the mobile electronic device. [00018] In accordance with another aspect of the invention, there is provided a network comprising a hardware unit wirelessly connected to a mobile electronic device, the hardware unit being operably connected to one or more motorcycle systems, the hardware unit being wirelessly connected the display to provide information about the one or more motorcycle systems; and a cloud-based web server in communication with the mobile electronic device, the cloud-based web server being located to wirelessly transmit and receive real-time data to and from the mobile electronic device.

[00019] In accordance with another aspect of the invention, there is a kit for providing a virtual instrument cluster comprising a hardware unit connectable to a mobile electronic device, the hardware unit capable of communication with one or more motorcycle systems, wherein upon connection to the mobile electronic device and the motorcycle, the mobile electronic device is operable to displays information about the one or more motorcycle systems.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[00020] These and other features of that described herein will become more apparent from the following description in which reference is made to the appended drawings wherein:

[00021] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing an embodiment of a virtual instrument cluster system for a motorcycle.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Definitions

[00022] Unless otherwise specified, the following definitions apply:

[00023] The singular forms "a", "an" and "the" include corresponding plural references unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. [00024] As used herein, the term "comprising" is intended to mean that the list of elements following the word "comprising" are required or mandatory but that other elements are optional and may or may not be present.

[00025] As used herein, the term "consisting of" is intended to mean including and limited to whatever follows the phrase "consisting of". Thus, the phrase "consisting of" indicates that the listed elements are required or mandatory and that no other elements may be present.

[00026] Certain embodiments of my design are described below with reference to systems, methods, apparatuses, and/or computer program products according to example embodiments of the design. It will be understood by one skilled in the art that one or more of the elements or blocks described below can be implemented manually or, in one example, by computer-executable program instructions. Likewise, some blocks of the block diagrams and flow diagrams may not necessarily need to be performed in the order presented or may not necessarily need to be performed at all, according to some embodiments of the design. Further, the number of elements or blocks described below can be fewer or greater and may include similar or other functions according to various embodiments.

[00027] These computer-executable program instructions may be loaded onto a general-purpose computer, a special-purpose computer, a processor, or other programmable data processing apparatus to produce a particular machine, such that the instructions that execute on the computer, processor, or other programmable data processing apparatus create means for implementing one or more functions specified in the flow diagram block or blocks. These computer program instructions may also be stored in a computer-readable memory that can direct a computer or other programmable data processing apparatus to function in a particular manner, such that the instructions stored in the computer-readable memory produce an article of manufacture including instruction means that implement one or more functions specified in the flow diagram block or blocks. As an example, embodiments of the invention may provide for a computer program product, comprising a computer-usable medium having a computer-readable program code or program instructions embodied therein, said computer-readable program code adapted to be executed to implement one or more functions specified in the flow diagram block or blocks. The computer program instructions may also be loaded onto a computer or other programmable data processing apparatus to cause a series of operational elements or steps to be performed on the computer or other programmable apparatus to produce a computer- implemented process such that the instructions that execute on the computer or other programmable apparatus provide elements or steps for implementing the functions specified in the flow diagram block or blocks.

[00028] A device includes a case with a window into which a user (a motorcycle rider) can slide the device. In the examples illustrated, the device is a smart phone or a tablet. The window permits the user to view the screen to access required information. The user can interact with the screen via the window, but for safety reasons this is only allowed when the motorcycle is in neutral and parked. When the user is driving the motorcycle, the screen can be used in instrument cluster mode in which the screen can display information and features one can typically find on a motorcycle instrument cluster plus user defined features such as navigation; data and alerts regarding motorcycle system health, i.e. oil pressure, battery voltage, fuel level and the like.

[00029] The device is hardwired to the motorcycle's sensors, including the CAN network (Controller Area Network Bus Standard) and power, which to allow it to turn the motorcycle on and off. Furthermore, additional and different add-on feature can be added (future implementations), such as in lidar units, vehicle-to- vehicle communication (V2V or Vanet communications) units. The smart phone is also charged when it is located in the case via the motorcycle's power. The device is connected wirelessly to the smartphone via NFC (Near Field Communication) and Bluetooth for both authentication (for key-like functions through the phone) and to transmit to the phone all the information relative to the motorcycle and the ride.

[00030] The smartphone can via preset, broadcast live data feed to third party cloud-based web service servers using LTE or 4g/3G wireless communications, or it can buffer to a preset amount data to the smartphone internal memory to be broadcast using Wi-Fi when later available. This function can also be used when the smartphone is out of range of a cellular connection.

[00031] The data once on the cloud can be accessed via different gateways and interface depending on the user access.

[00032] The user interface allows the user to track the motorcycle's health, information collected from the latest rides and all sensors, either raw or streamlined. The rider can also change different settings relating to the app running on the smartphone.

[00033] An administrator interface allows A-malgam Technologies Inc. full access to manage all data.

[00034] The third-party interface can be built for OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) to access their own set of metrics. This can be tailored to third party use and requirements.

[00035] Our solution to the problems described above are as follows:

[00036] Firstly, from a purely practical point of view, instead of using key bundles, which are cumbersome, smart or cell phones can be used instead. However, the problem with smart or cell phones is that the user is generally bombarded with texts and emails, which the rider is tempted to read and respond to. Moreover, like keys, the cell phone is generally carried in the user's pockets, which is uncomfortable.

[00037] Secondly, we believe the cell phone's computing capacity and screen size can use used very effectively as a motorcycle's primary instrument which can be used to record and analyze data from the motorcycle, while simultaneously providing a web access to user data and options.

[00038] By providing a waterproof case, charging, complete data feed/recording, archiving capabilities and key functions our new and unobvious device provides a user with a tool to navigate, monitor and share all this desired information on top of using his phone, which is used as his key.

[00039] In our design, the motorcycle presents with an empty case where typically the instrument cluster would be. By taking out his cellphone, sliding it into the case and closing it, the phone automatically powers up and begins spooling up the app. This app prompts the user with a keypad to enter in a unique personal identification number (PIN), which bring the cluster alive with his own personal instrument. As the user starts the motorcycle, the data that is collected by the device is either buffered in the phone for a later Wi-Fi download or is live-streamed to the cloud for live analysis and future reference.

[00040] The device allows the user to: a) monitor the motorcycle in real-time without ever having to look at the data; b) use the smartphone as a key to unlock the motorcycle; c) use the phone's screen as a smart and customizable instrument cluster; d) have access to an intergraded navigation display that is unobtrusive or distracting; e) use the phone's sensors on top of the motorcycle's sensor to provide pertinent data in real-time; f) provide web access and connectivity to the motorcycle; and g) provide OEM with real-time data on usage for warranty and maintenance, and future product development.

[00041] Our device is a top of the line, solid, versatile, upgradable and customizable solution to the problems described above.

[00042] The device allows the rider to use his phone by inserting it in the cluster itself and to allow the screen of the phone to display all the required information. As the user closes the cluster's front face the phone will automatically display the device's app and prompt the rider for his PIN code. Once the correct code is inserted the motorcycle is unlocked and now acts as a full-featured cluster.

[00043] The device allows all sensor information from both the motorcycle and the phone itself to be either buffered on the phone until a Wi-Fi network is available and then uploaded to our server or to be set as "pit crew" mode to feed the data to our servers on the fly via cellular network for live data feed. However it is fed to our server, data is secure, saved and monitored for user analysis.

[00044] Advanced functions are available as in-app purchases. Among these, a navigation mode, collision avoidance, emergency crash protection, custom backgrounds, cluster skins.

[00045] Referring now to FIG. 1 , in which a virtual system is shown generally at 10. The system 10 includes a wired and wirelessly connected network 12, which for a user creates a virtual instrument cluster 14 for use with a motorcycle (not shown). Broadly speaking, the system 10 includes a mobile electronic device 16 with a display screen 18, a processor/non-transient memory 20, and a hardware unit 22. A third party, cloud-based web server 24 is wirelessly connected to the mobile electronic device 16. In the example, the mobile electronic device 16 is a smart phone, such as an iPhone or, if space permits, a tablet. The hardware unit 22 is generally mounted on the front portion of the motorcycle and has a case, which receives the device 16.

[00046] Still referring to FIG. 1 , the hardware unit 22 is bidirectionally wirelessly connected to the mobile electronic device 16, and is in communication via hardwiring 26 with one or more motorcycle systems 28. The motorcycle systems 28 include analog sensors, which continually check oil pressure, temperature and the like. Furthermore, the hardware unit 22 is wirelessly connected via Bluetooth and NFC to the mobile electronic device 16. The hardware unit 22 is in communication with the display screen 18 to provide information about the one or more motorcycle systems 28 to the user. Also, hardwired to the hardware unit 22 are additional items such as for example, system redundancy sensors, V2V communication unit, CAN network feed and Lidar feed unit. Also hardwired to the hardware unit 22 is the main power control for the motorcycle. Furthermore, the motorcycle battery is hardwired to the hardware unit 22

[00047] Still referring to FIG. 1 , a USB power port enables wired connection between the hardware unit 22 and the mobile electronic device 16. [00048] Referring still to FIG. 1 , the cloud-based web server 24 is wirelessly connected to mobile electronic device 16. The cloud-based web server 24 is generally located remote from the electronic device 16 and transmits and receives real-time data to and from the mobile electronic device 16. The server 24 is typically wirelessly connected via Wi-Fi 30 or LTE/4G/3G and provides web services such as data analytics, client profiles and all user data. Furthermore, the server 24 can wirelessly connect to a web admin. Interface; a web user interface and a web third party interface.

[00049] Other Embodiments

[00050] From the foregoing description, it will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art that variations and modifications may be made to the embodiments described herein to adapt it to various usages and conditions.

Claims

[00051] CLAIMS We claim:

1 . A virtual instrument cluster system for a motorcycle, the system comprising a hardware unit connectable to a mobile electronic device, the hardware unit capable of communication with one or more motorcycle systems, wherein upon connection to the mobile electronic device and the motorcycle, the mobile electronic device is operable to displays information about the one or more motorcycle systems.

2. The system of claim 1 , wherein the system upon connection to the mobile electronic device is configured for communication with a cloud-based web server, wherein the cloud-based web server transmits and receives data to and from the mobile electronic device.

3. The system of claim 1 or 2, wherein the mobile electronic device is a smart phone or tablet.

4. The system, according to any one of claims 1 to 3, in which the hardware unit is configured to be hardwired to the one or more motorcycle systems.

5. The system, according to any one of claims 1 to 3, in which the hardware unit is configured to be reversibly connected to the one or more motorcycle systems.

6. The system, according to claim 5, in which the hardware unit is configured for plug and play connection to the one or more motorcycle systems.

7. The system, according to any one of claims 1 to 6, in which the hardwire is configured for plug and play connection to the mobile electronic device.

8. The system, according to any one of claims 1 to 7, in which the hardwire is configured for wireless connection to the mobile electronic device.

9. The system, according to claim 8, wherein the wireless connection is a Bluetooth® connection.

10. A virtual instrument cluster system for a motorcycle, the system comprising: a mobile electronic device having a display connected to a processor and a non- transient memory; and a hardware unit connected to the mobile electronic device and in communication with one or more motorcycle systems, wherein the hardware unit is operable to display information about the one or more motorcycle systems on the mobile electronic device.

1 1 . The system of claim 10, wherein the system is configured for communication with a cloud-based web server, wherein the cloud-based web server transmits and receives data to and from the mobile electronic device.

12. The system of claim 1 1 , wherein the cloud-based web server transmits and receives data in real-time.

13. The system, according to any one of claims 10 to 12, in which the hardware unit is configured to be hardwired to the one or more motorcycle systems.

14. The system, according to any one of claims 10 to 12, in which the hardware unit is configured to be reversibly connected to the one or more motorcycle systems.

15. The system, according to claim 14, in which the hardware unit is configured for plug and play connection to the one or more motorcycle systems.

16. The system, according to any one of claims 10 to 15, in which the hardware unit is configured to be hardwired to the mobile electronic device.

17. The system, according to any one of claims 10 to 15, in which the hardware unit is configured to be reversibly connected to the mobile electronic device.

18. The system, according to claim 17, in which the hardware unit is configured for plug and play connection to the mobile electronic device.

19. The system, according to claim 7 or 18, wherein the plug and play connection is via USB connection.

20. The system, according to any one of claims 1 to 19, wherein the mobile electronic device is charged from the motorcycle battery.

21 . The system, according to claim 20, wherein a USB port interconnects the mobile electronic device and a motorcycle battery

22. The system, according to claim 10, in which the hardware unit configured for wirelessly connection to the mobile electronic device.

23. The system, according to claim 22, wherein the wireless connection is bidirectional.

24. The system, according to any one of claims 10 to 23, in which the mobile electronic device is a smart phone.

25. The system, according to any one of claims 10 to 24, in which the hardware unit is mounted on the motorcycle and is configured to receive the mobile electronic device.

26. The system, according to any one of claims 10, wherein a case is mounted on the hardware unit to receive therein the mobile electronic device.

A network comprising: a hardware unit wirelessly connected to a mobile electronic device, the hardware unit being operably connected to one or more motorcycle systems, the hardware unit being wirelessly connected the display to provide information about the one or more motorcycle systems; and a cloud-based web server in communication with the mobile electronic device, the cloud-based web server being located to wirelessly transmit and receive realtime data to and from the mobile electronic device.

28. A kit comprising the system of any one of claims 1 to 9.

29. The kit, according to claim 28, further comprising instructions.

30. The kit, according to claim 28 or 29, further comprising one or more mounting elements for mounting the hardware unit to the motorcycle.

31 . The kit, according to any one of claims 28 to 30, further comprising one or more connectors for connecting the hardware unit to one or more motorcycle systems and/or mobile electronic device.

32. The kit, according to any one of claims 28 to 31 , further comprising a mobile electronic device mount for mounting the mobile electronic device to the hardware unit.