System and method for providing route calculation and information to a vehicle

[0001] The invention generally relates to systems in the field of communication, navigation and control used by a user in a motor vehicle. In particular, the invention relates to systems and methods for providing route information to a vehicle system.

[0002] Vehicles typically have several electronic systems and subsystems, such as an audio system, cell phone system, navigation system, in-vehicle entertainment system, engine control system that can be controlled from the user interface, HVAC system, etc. One such system or more of them may include or cooperate with a control system inside the vehicle that can be installed in the vehicle. The control system may include a control interface and associated controls and be configured for coupling or integration with other electronic systems within the vehicle, such as a display system or an audio system.

[0003] An increasing number of cars sold have built-in or installed navigation systems based on the Global Positioning System (GPS), which usually include a GPS receiver configured to receive position information (e.g. latitude, longitude, altitude, etc.), a database containing a map and / or navigation data, such as, for example, road data and important point data (POIs Point-of-interest) and a dedicated display screen, such as, for example, described in US 2004/0054468 A1, US 2005/0015197 A1, US 6,603,405 B2 or US 2005 / 0071119A1. It should be noted that road data and / or POI data may not only contain information about a given point of interest (e.g. name, location, address, telephone number, etc.), but also street or road data that relates to a specific road (e.g. speed limit, lanes, warning information, etc.). The database associated with the vehicle navigation system is usually implemented as a CD-ROM or DVD-ROM using the player of this disk. In addition to the cost of GPS navigation systems, one disadvantage is the unchanging nature of the map and / or navigation data, and more precisely, the unchanging nature of the storage medium for road data and POI data. Road data and POI data are dynamic, for example, at the same time as maps are created, roads are narrowed or expanded, speed limits are adjusted, restaurants, petrol stations, hotels and other points of interest are opened, closed and / or named anew . Because maps and / or navigation data are usually stored on an optical disk, the maps and / or navigation data become obsolete when the disk is manufactured. The older the disk, the more outdated the maps and / or navigation data. Because of the cost and hassle of acquiring new disks with map data, the user usually irregularly acquires the disks with maps and / or navigation data, if any.

[0004] There is a need for an in-vehicle control system that can obtain information from remote sources. In addition, you need a control system inside the vehicle that can display images from remote sources live, in real time, or images that are updated frequently. In addition, there is a need to process information in an external or remote source relative to the vehicle for display on video systems and / or audio playback systems.

[0005] It is therefore desirable to provide a system and / or method to meet one or more such needs. Other features and benefits will result from the content of the specification. The disclosure includes embodiments falling within the scope of the claims, regardless of whether they meet one or more of the aforementioned needs.

SUMMARY [0006] One embodiment relates to the system according to claim 1.

[0007] Another embodiment relates to the method according to claim 8.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS [0008] The invention will become fully understood thanks to the following detailed description, accompanied by drawings in which the same reference numerals refer to the same elements:

[0009] FIG 1 is a perspective view of a motor vehicle that includes several vehicle systems, including an in-vehicle control system in accordance with one embodiment;

[0010] FIG. 2 is a front view of the user interface of the control system inside the vehicle of FIG. 1 according to one embodiment;

[0011] FIG. 3 is a block diagram of the control system inside the vehicle of FIG. 1 according to one embodiment;

[0012] in FIG. 4 shows a more detailed embodiment and block diagram of the control system inside the vehicle of FIG. 3 according to one embodiment [0013] FIG. 5 is a block diagram of the control system of FIG 1 according to another embodiment;

[0014] FIG. 6A to 6D are block diagrams of various possibilities for combining the vehicle control system of FIG. 1 according to various embodiments;

[0015] in FIG. 7, according to an embodiment, is a block diagram of a process for transmitting an information processing request outwardly to a remote source and transmitting a response to the audio and / or video interface of the vehicle of FIG 1;

[0016] in FIG. 8A, according to an embodiment, is a flowchart of a process in which an intermediate device (e.g., a mobile phone) may be used in the context of using a vehicle control system and a remote source;

[0017] in FIG. 8B, according to an embodiment, is a block diagram of a process for handling requests from a vehicle control system and / or intermediate device;

[0018] FIG.9 is a block diagram of a process for providing navigation information from a remote source to a vehicle control system according to an embodiment;

[0019] FIG. 10 is a block diagram of a vehicle control system comprising a radio system and memory according to an embodiment;

[0020] In FIG. 11 is a flowchart of a process illustrating a method of transferring files from a first remote source to a second remote source according to an embodiment;

[0021] FIG 12 is a perspective view of a motor vehicle comprising a multi-loudspeaker sound system according to an embodiment;

[0022] In FIG. 13 is a block diagram of a process for receiving a request from a user regarding access to a phone book entry using speech recognition of a vehicle control system according to an embodiment of the invention; and [0023] In FIG. 14 is a block diagram of a process for creating a list of phone book entries for a user according to an embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS [0024] Before discussing the figures in which the embodiments are illustrated in detail, it is to be understood that the application is not limited to the details or methods set forth in the description below or shown on the example of the figures. It should also be understood that the phraseology and terminology used herein is for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as limiting.

[0025] As shown in FIG. 1, the vehicle 100 includes a number of subsystems providing convenience and entertainment to the user. The vehicle 100 is equipped with a heating, ventilation and air-conditioning system (HVAC), sound system and control system inside the vehicle 106 (e.g. media system, navigation system, entertainment system, display system, communication system, etc.). The HVAC system, sound system, display systems and communication systems can be coupled to a control system inside the vehicle 106, which can control and monitor various systems automatically or as a result of manual input of a command by the user. It should be noted that in various embodiments the vehicle 100, HVAC system, sound systems and other vehicle systems may be compatible with the design used in the past, present or future design, and they must be able to interact with control system inside the vehicle.

[0026] In FIG. 2 shows one embodiment of a control system inside a vehicle 106. The control system inside a vehicle 106 typically includes an output display

- 4,108, one knob 110 or more of them, one button 112 or more of them, one touch input or button 114 or more of them, which facilitate the control of various vehicle and media functions. In one embodiment, the output display 108 may be a touch screen, and in other embodiments it may be any other non-contact display. In yet other embodiments, the output display 108 may be based on any technology (e.g. LCD, DLP, plasma, CRT) in any configuration (e.g. portrait or landscape) or in any shape (e.g. polygonal, curved, curvilinear). The output display 108 may be a manufacturer-mounted display, an aftermarket display, or a display from any source. The output display 108 may be a built-in display (e.g. embedded in the control system or other vehicle systems, parts or structures), an autonomous display (e.g. portable display, display mounted on a movable arm) or display of any other configuration. Output knobs 110 and buttons 112 and 114 can be configured to (i) control HVAC system functions, such as fan speed, cabin temperature, or air flow, for example; (ii) controlling playback of files by the sound system; (iii) controlling the search for phone book entries; (iv) controlling any other vehicle function; or (v) controlling the function of the connected remote source. Buttons 114 typically allow the selection and display of various functions of the control system inside the vehicle 106, including functions of controlling the HVAC system, controlling the sound system, controlling the media system, controlling the display system, controlling the telecommunication system, controlling the hands-free telephone system, managing the contact or address / phone book , viewing / modifying the calendar, recording vehicle data. Buttons 114 can also allow you to view and reconfigure navigation system settings, device profiles and / or map mappings and controls.

[0027] Button 114 may allow display of the playback menu screen or implement touch or oral commands that allow the user to view, select, sort, search and / or play audio or video files. Using button 114 to operate the hands-free phone may allow the menu screen to be displayed or commands that will allow the user to connect the control system inside the vehicle 106 to the cell phone so that the cell phone is operated by talking to the control system console inside the vehicle 106. Using the 114 button for HVAC control may allow displaying a menu screen or implementing touch or oral commands that will allow the user to adjust the cabin temperature and control the airflow. Using button 114 for managing contacts may enable displaying a menu screen or executing verbal or tactile commands that will allow the user to view, list, select, sort, search, edit and / or make a call for one or more personal information items. position. Using the 114 button for calendar management may display the menu screen or

- the implementation of verbal or tactile commands that will allow the user to view, list, select, sort, search, edit and / or create one item containing personal schedule information or more. Using button 114 to manage the vehicle log may allow displaying the menu screen or executing verbal or tactile commands that will allow the user to enter, select and / or reset information related to the operation of the vehicle (e.g. fuel consumption, engine temperature, distance that can be driven, until complete fuel consumption, etc.). Using the buttons 114 for communication control may enable displaying a menu screen or performing verbal or tactile commands that will allow the user to enter, view, select, reset, specify or activate communication settings or communication modes. Using the 114 buttons to control the navigation system may allow the menu screen to be displayed or the commands that will allow the user to enter, view, specify, select and / or change the navigation settings.

[0028] According to FIG. 3, the in-vehicle control system 106 is able to access remote source 116 data files via communication link 118. For example, the in-vehicle control system 106 may access media files, phone book data files, calendar data, image data or any other available data that can be used in the control system inside the vehicle and the media system. The in-vehicle control system 106 may also send requests, receive files, send and receive commands, and send and / or receive any other type of data to the source and / or from the remote source 116 using communication link 118.

[0029] The in-vehicle control system 106 typically includes a communication device 120, data processing system 122, graphic controller 124, user interface 126, audio input device 128, audio output device 130 output display 108 and memory device 132.

[0030] The communication device 120 is typically configured to establish a communication link 118 with a remote source 116. In one embodiment, the in-vehicle control system 106 may establish a wireless communication link, such as Bluetooth, IEEE 802.11, 802.16, a cellular signal, wired access for the wireless shared access protocol (SWAP-CA) Shared Wireless Access Protocol - Cord Access), a wireless USB protocol or any other wireless technology protocol. In another embodiment, the in-vehicle control system 106 may establish a wired communication link based, for example, on USB technology, IEEE 1394 technology, optical technology, another serial or parallel port technology, or other suitable wired connection. Communication device 120 may receive one or more files from a remote source 116. In various embodiments, data files may include text data, numeric data, audio data, video data, program data, command data, information data, coordinate data, image data , streaming media or

- 6 any combination of them.

[0031] Data processing system 122 is connected to communication device 120 and is usually configured to control each function of the control system inside the vehicle 106. Data processing system 122 may facilitate speech recognition by the control system inside the vehicle 106, providing user convenience. Data processing system 122 may include digital or analog processing elements and / or in accordance with a design used in the past, present or future design, such elements facilitating the operation of the control system inside the vehicle 106 or favoring the operation of its elements. Data processing system 122 may be one data processing device or multiple data processing devices. Data processing system 122 may be a data processing device having data processing devices or components. The data processing system 122 may include any combination of software and hardware that is able to provide in the vehicle control display functions, communications and output and input functions. Data processing system 122 may coordinate the various devices, components and properties of a control system inside a vehicle (e.g. communication device 120, output display 108, graphics controller 124, memory device 132, audio system 104, user interface 126, audio input device 128, audio output device 130, etc.).

[0032] The graphics controller 124 is coupled to the output display 108 and is usually configured to send an electronic signal to the output display. In one embodiment, the electronic signal may include text data and / or numeric data of the data files, and in other embodiments, any other desired data may be included along with the text and / or numerical data in the electronic signal sent to the output display, or may be present in him alone. In another embodiment, the graphics controller 124 may be configured to control the output display 108 with touch screen capabilities, and in other embodiments the graphics controller 124 may be configured to control the display 108 without using the touch screen capabilities. The graphics controller 124 can perform any number of functions, operate any software and hardware if it facilitates controlling and displaying images on the display 108. In yet other embodiments, the graphics controller 124 may be compatible with a design used in the past, present or with the a project that will be used in the future axis, which allows controlling the output display 108.

[0033] The audio input device 128, for example a microphone, is configured to receive the user's expression and transmit it to the data processing system 122 for voice recognition so that the functions of the control system inside the vehicle 106 can be operated by a voice command. The audio output device 130, e.g. the built-in speaker, is configured to provide the user with an audio signal of various functions, e.g. to confirm the choice made by

- 7 users.

[0034] The storage device 132 is configured to collect data that has been accessed by the control system inside the vehicle 106. For example, storage device 132 may store input data from a remote source 116, data created by data processing system 122 that can be used later, intermediate data used in current calculations or processes, or any other data that may be used in control system inside the vehicle 106.

[0035] In FIG. 4, the in-vehicle control system 106 and remote source 116 are shown in more detail. Data processing system 122 typically includes a text grammar device 134, speech recognition device 136 and text speech device 138. Data processing system 122 may include any number of computer hardware modules, software modules, or processing devices (e.g. additional graphics processors, communication processors, etc.).

[0036] The text grammar device 134 can be connected to the communication device 120 and is usually configured to generate a phonematic representation of the text data and / or numerical data of each data file received by the communication device 120 from the remote source 116. The phonemic representation of the text data and / or Numeric data for each data file can be configured to facilitate speech recognition for each data file. After the data file is converted to a phonetic representation, the data file can be accessed by an oral input command that is received by the speech recognition device 136 using an audio input device 128. According to an embodiment, the text grammar device 134 may be able to provide a phonemic representation of the information received. from a remote source.

[0037] The speech recognition device 136 is typically configured to receive a verbal user input command by the audio input device 128. The speech recognition device compares the received oral input command with a set of predefined input commands that may have been configured by the text grammar device 134. In various embodiments, the input commands may be associated with playing media files, selecting or entering phone book entries, entering or making a list of calendar or contact data, controlling the HVAC system, or any desired function performed using the data. Speech recognition device 136 may decide upon an appropriate response to an oral input command received from a user, for example, whether the oral input command is a valid or invalid instruction, what command should be performed, or any other appropriate response. According to an embodiment, the speech recognition device 136 may be able to invoke or activate display reproduction mode upon recognition of certain commands. In addition, speech recognition device 136 may be able to transmit commands to remote device 116 to facilitate interactive control of the remote source via a communication link.

[0038] The text speech device 138 is typically configured to convert the text and / or numeric data of each data file received from remote source 116 into audible speech. This function may enable the in-vehicle control system 106 to communicate data to the user audibly through the audio output device 130 or the audio system 104. For example, the in-vehicle control system 106 may repeat to a user what function has been selected by the user, provide navigation information, communicate directions, communicate menu options, communicate media file information, provide phone book or contact information, provide any other related information. with data stored in memory 132, remote source 116, on remote server 154, etc. According to an embodiment, the text speech device 138 may be able to provide audible speech regarding information received from a remote source.

[0039] Memory device 132 includes both non-volatile memory 140 and non-volatile memory 142. Non-volatile memory 140 can be configured so that the content stored therein can be deleted during each power-up cycle of control system 106 or vehicle 100. Persistent memory 142 can be configured to retain the contents stored therein during power-up cycles, so that after powering up control system 106 the data used the previous time would still be available to the user. According to an example of the invention, one user profile, display profile, communication profile, navigation profile or more of such profiles or any other type of system settings file or user profile may be stored in persistent memory 142.

[0040] According to an embodiment, the remote source 116 may be any suitable remote source that includes a transceiver and may couple to the control system inside the vehicle 106 via communication link 118 (wireless or wired). In various embodiments, the remote source 116 may be one cell phone 144, a personal digital assistant (PDA) 146, a media player 148, a personal navigation device (PND) personal navigation device) 150, pager 152, remote server 154, which can connect to the Internet, or more of them, or various other remote sources. Remote source 116 may have a storage device, one or more processing device, one or more communication device. According to one embodiment, the remote source 116 is able to cooperate with the global position determination system. According to various embodiments, the remote source 116 can connect to the Internet or any remote source using the first communication device and at the same time connect to the control system using the second communication device.

[0041] In FIG. 5 shows a control system 106 according to various embodiments. Various connection options are shown for control system 106. In particular, control system 106 has been shown to include a 516 wireless interface and a 518 wired interface. The 516 wireless interface can be used for

- 9 communication coupling of control system 106 with mobile device 522, wireless service system 524 (and / or server 525), remote source 526 and / or wireless service system 528. Wired interface 518 can be used to communicate coupling of control system 106 with a mobile device 520. It should be noted that any of the devices 520, 522, 524, 526 and 528 can be configured for further coupling to a further system, further devices or servers. For example, it has been shown that the wireless service system 524 is connected to the server 525. As another example, it has been shown that the remote source 526 is connected to the wireless service system 528. The wireless interface 516 may be a communication device 120 or may include it and / or may include any number of radio frequency (RF) circuits, modulators, demodulators, filters, transmitters, receivers, transceivers or the like to ensure performance relevant data transfer operations. Preferably, the wireless interface 516 includes a transceiver that can send voice data, audio data and / or video data to remote sources and receive them from them via a wireless protocol such as CDMA, GSM, 3G, WiFi, WiMax, Bluetooth, ZigBee , any IEEE 802.11 protocol, etc. It should be noted that the remote source can be connected to the wireless interface 516 and control system 106 via the Internet, WAN, LAN, through the services of an intermediate provider or any other network or other source. The 518 wired interface according to an embodiment is a universal serial bus (USB) interface. Wired interface 518 may be used to connect mobile device 520 to control system 106, and mobile device 520 may include communication computer hardware and / or software to provide connection to another remote source (e.g., via a network, wireless or direct service system).

[0042] The control system 106 is configured to request, receive or access information of a remote source, service system or server. Such an operation can take place thanks to a wireless or wired connection. Information can be stored locally at a remote source, service system, or server, which can also connect to a further system to receive information to be sent to the control system. According to an example of the invention, "remote source" refers to a portable device or device external to the vehicle that is configured to receive an information request and to respond to an information request.

[0043] It has been shown that the control system 106 includes an interface (or interfaces) 508 for coupling a communication control system to one or more modules or devices. Control system 106 has been shown to be coupled to user interface element 530, vehicle data bus 532, positioning device 534, audio system 104, microphone 540, vehicle sensor 542, and compass system 544. As shown, memory device 132 includes database 541. Control system 106, as shown, also includes a global position determination system 510. In addition, control system 106 as shown is coupled to dashboard display 546 and output display 108.

[0044] The user interface element 530 may provide vehicle users with various mechanisms of interaction with the system 106, including, for example, voice recognition function, audio hint function, graphical user interface (GUI), switch, sensor, button, touch screen, number dial and the like.

[0045] The vehicle data bus 532 may be a bus, link or network for sending and / or receiving information from the vehicle / in the vehicle. Vehicle subsystems, engine control units, sensor modules, GPS devices and / or any other vehicle-mounted systems can be configured for communication using the vehicle's 532 data bus.

[0046] Positioning device 534 is a device configured to provide positioning information to control system 106. Position information may include latitude coordinates, longitude coordinates, global positioning system coordinates, bearing information, real-time location information, time information, elevation information, coverage information, geographical information and / or any other information on the basis of which transmission and / or reception can be used to determine the location. Positioning device 534 may include a GPS receiver and / or a compass. The positioning device 534 may also or alternatively include a gyroscope.

[0047] The microphone 540 may be a microphone mounted on a vehicle element, a microphone embedded in the control system 106 or integral with it, a microphone embedded in the dashboard, a sun visor or other place. The microphone 540 may generally be configured to receive voice and provide voice audio to the control system 106.

[0048] The vehicle sensor 542 may be one or more vehicle sensors configured to provide vehicle information to the system 106 according to an example of the invention. The vehicle sensor 542 may, for example, be a wheel rotation speed sensor, a vehicle constant speed system sensor, a steering-coupled sensor, or the like.

[0049] It has been shown that the compass system 544 is coupled to the control system 106 according to an embodiment of the invention. The 544 compass system can be any system used in the past, present, compass system that will be used in the future as long as it is configured to provide direction or bearing information.

[0050] A GPS 510 system with a control system 106 according to an embodiment is shown. According to other embodiments, the GPS system or receiver is not integrally included in the control system 106, but is connected to the control system 106 via interface 508 or other means. The GPS 510 system can be any system configured to receive GPS information and provide GPS information to the control system 106. It should be noted that in such embodiments, when sufficient GPS signals are unavailable (e.g., intermittent signals) to provide position information about

- 11 some degree of certainty can be used for vehicle course and speed data (e.g. from compass system 544, vehicle sensor 542 and / or positioning device 534), on the basis of which information about the current position is generated as part of computational navigation, where it uses the last known position determined by GPS.

[0051] Memory device 132 has been shown to include a database 541 according to an example of the invention. Database 541 can generally be configured to store information received on interface 508, information received on interfaces 516, 518, information received on GPS 510 and / or information generated by processing system 122. Database 541 may be configured to store intermediate information or information for transmission from control system 106 to a remote source. Preferably, information is stored in database 541 that can be used for travel and / or to provide navigation elements to control system 106. For example, the 541 database may store navigation system settings, information about important objects, information about the map, traffic, weather and the like. According to an embodiment, the vehicle control system 106 does not include a fixed type map within and / or a navigation database; most data and / or navigational processing operations are performed externally (e.g. on one or more remote sources, on servers or in intermediate devices).

[0052] According to various embodiments, the vehicle user using the system of FIG. 5 can access information from a remote source for a variety of purposes. For example, the user can get directions to a given destination and / or point of interest. The user may submit the request using a user interface element 530, a microphone 540 with speech recognition and / or a touch screen with a graphical user interface. User request can be provided to interface 508. Preferably, the request contains information about the desired destination and current vehicle information, including, for example, information from the GPS 510 system, information from the positioning system 535, vehicle sensor 542, vehicle data bus 532 and / or compass system 544. The request may be processed by processing system 122, stored in memory device 132 and / or database 541. Options and / or other graphical user interface elements associated with the request may appear on output display 108 and / or dashboard display 546. The request may be provided to the wireless interface 516 and / or the wired interface 518 for transmission to a remote source ( e.g. 525 server, 528 wireless service system, 526 remote source, 522 mobile device, etc.). According to the invention, the user indicates the service provider and / or the website where the request is to be received or served. For example, users can specify whether they want to receive directions from Google, Yahoo, Mapquest or another map or directions provider.

[0053] Information received from a remote source as a response to a transmitted request may be stored in memory device 132, database 540 or other device

- 12 data storage connected to the control system 106. After receiving them, the processing system 122 may further process the information or provide it to the display system (e.g. display 108, display 546, display HUD (head-up display, head-up display) , HMD display, headrest display, ceiling console display, etc.). According to an embodiment, a detailed representation of the information (e.g. the whole map with the highlighted route, the map with points of interest, the map showing more than one turn) can be shown on the first display (e.g. central display), and a less detailed representation of information (e.g. next turn, arrow, distance indicator to turning map, reduced area map, etc.) on the second display. Preferably, the processing system 122 is configured with program code (e.g. contained in memory device 132 or elsewhere) that allows this processing system to process information received from a remote source and to display the processed information on the display. Processing system 122 may also generate audio prompts, display prompts, rotate the map, and / or update the map with position information provided by subsystems (e.g., GPS 510, positioning device 534, vehicle sensor 542, etc.).

[0054] According to an embodiment, the icon, graphic and / or trademark associated with the point of interest may appear on the dashboard display 546. Information on the distance to the point of interest can also be seen on the dashboard display 546.

[0055] According to the invention, when the vehicle changes its position relative to global positioning (which is recorded by the GPS 510 system, positioning device 534, vehicle data bus 532, vehicle sensor 542, etc.), information on this subject is constantly provided to a remote source 526 via wireless interface 516 or wired interface 518. In response, the remote source 526 can continuously process position information to provide updated direction information. Remote source 526 can also send commands to control system 106. Commands can be configured to, for example, cause the control system to show a particular element on the display, a specific audio hint, a warning about traffic conditions or the like. For example, remote source 526 may provide real time (or close to real time) traffic data and / or command the control system to display or play a traffic warning. Warnings and information given in advance regarding road conditions can cause the driver to change routes. According to an embodiment, if information about a high traffic volume, alert situation or other event is forwarded to a remote source 526 or vehicle control system 106, the system may automatically (or after user confirmation) provide a new set of directions corresponding to the new route. The vehicle control system 106 may send a request for new directions, which may also be automatically transmitted to the vehicle control system 106 by a remote source 526 that already contains data about the route planned by the user and / or the selected destination.

[0056] In FIG. 6A to 6D are block diagrams of the possibilities of the vehicle control system 106 associated with communications according to various embodiments.

[0057] In FIG. 6A shows a vehicle control system 106 connected to a wireless service system (WSO) 604. WSO 604 is connected to a network 608 (e.g. Internet, WAN, LAN, etc.). Remote source 610 (e.g., navigation server, weather server, point of interest server, etc.) is connected to network 608. In this embodiment, the vehicle control system 106 may include a built-in (or fixed) communication device, such as a built-in cell phone module .

[0058] In FIG. 6B shows the vehicle control system 106 connected to the WiFi 606 network. The WiFi 606 network is connected to the 608 network (e.g. Internet, WAN, LAN, etc.). Remote source 610 (e.g., navigation server, weather server, point of interest server, etc.) is connected to network 608. In this embodiment, the vehicle control system 106 may include a built-in (or fixed) communication device, such as a built-in compatible transmitter - WiFi receiver. According to various embodiments, a communication device compatible with other wireless local area network technologies may be embedded in the control system 106 (or permanently connected to it). According to yet other embodiments, a communication device compatible with wireless wide area network technologies (e.g., WiMax) or other long range wireless technologies may be embedded in the control system 106 (or permanently connected to it).

[0059] In FIG. 6C to 6D shows a vehicle control system 106 connected to a portable device 602. Portable device 602 can act as a bridge between networks 604, 606, 608 and remote source 610. Portable device 602 may include a short-range transceiver (e.g. Bluetooth transceiver, short range communication transmitter, WiFi transceiver, ZigBee transceiver, USB wireless transceiver, etc.) and long range transceiver (cell phone transceiver, WiMax transceiver, etc.) . The short-range transceiver can be used to communicate with a compatible vehicle control system device 106, and the long-range transceiver can be used to communicate with the 606 network shown in Fig. 6C or a wireless service organization (WSO) 604 shown in FIG. 6D. According to various embodiments, a cell phone, PDA or other device having a transceiver capable of communicating in a 606 or WSO 604 network can be connected to the vehicle control system 106 by a wired connection (e.g., a USB connection). According to various embodiments, any suitable method, protocol, any suitable structure or technology may be used to connect the vehicle control system 106 to the remote source 610, where the remote source 610 is configured to conduct processing outside and deliver the processing result back to the control system 106 vehicle.

[0060] It should be noted that according to various embodiments, if the control system provides two or more communication capabilities (e.g. capabilities)

- 14 shown in FIG. 6A to 6D), the vehicle control system may be configured to establish the "best" wireless communication link with the remote source or the best path to access it. Various factors can be used to determine which device provides the "best" wireless connection. These factors may, for example, include signal strength, direction and / or speed of change in signal strength (vehicle may approach or move away from a device with current, high signal strength), bandwidth, access cost and any other relevant factor and any weighted or unweighted a combination of these factors. Processing system 122 may perform a determination procedure based on a computer code stored in memory device 132 or other memory device.

[0061] In FIG. 7, according to an embodiment, a process 700 of requesting to a remote source is shown so that it can be processed externally and provide a response to the vehicle's audio and / or video interface. Process 700 includes the step of receiving a command from the user interface or a command generated by the system (step 702). The command from the user interface can be generated by the voice recognition system, a touch user interface element and / or a touch screen. A system-generated command may also be received (or generated) by the system (e.g., by one or more applications) to initiate an external processing operation. For example, using GPS information and / or position information available to the vehicle, the system may attempt to determine routes, directions and / or update the displayed map. However, the system may decide that you need more information from a remote source (or that it is necessary). This decision may lead to a command to initiate the data collection process externally.

[0062] The user interface command and / or the command generated by the system may suggest to the user the need to collect additional information (e.g., information about the purpose) (step 704) or otherwise collect it (e.g. from a database or a connected source) . Additional information may include city, country, zip code, keyword, company name, username, contract name, category and / or other description. When using the process outdoors to obtain route or direction information for a given destination, the system may suggest the need for a certain number of descriptions about the specific destination, or the user may initiate these descriptions.

[0063] Any information on a particular target can be supplemented or replaced with information collected on the vehicle. The control system can be configured to send information queries, receive them, access them and / or collect them in another way (step 706) from one GPS system, position modules, position algorithms, database, vehicle sensors, unit engine control or more or similar. The information may be included in the information about the particular destination so that the remote source can use the vehicle and destination information to calculate the route.

[0064] The vehicle control system may be configured to be during

- or during process 700, a communication link with a remote source was established (step 708). This stage may consist in establishing a first communication link between the vehicle control system and an intermediate device (e.g. mobile device, cell phone, PDA) and a second communication link between the intermediate device and a remote source (via the network, wireless service system or not).

[0065] After collecting information (e.g., steps 704 and 706) and establishing a communication link with a remote source (step 708), the process 700 includes formatting the request using vehicle information and / or target information (step 710). Any number of steps or processing operations may occur before or during the formatting process. For example, the control system may compress information, encrypt information, compile information, generate further information based on the received information about the vehicle and the like. Formatting can include packing information into a file to send, arranging pieces of information in a certain order (e.g., in order of bits), generating a document with tags (e.g. XML document), generating a small database document, generating commands configured for commands provided at a remote source or the like.

[0066] After formatting, compiling or otherwise generating, the request may be sent to a wired or wireless interface (step 712). Submission of the request may include additional formatting stages, modulation stages, encryption stages, compression stages, packaging stages, protocol formatting, packaging stages or other processing stages depending on the needs of the user and / or the assumptions of the further device or network. When the request is placed on a wired or wireless interface, the wired or wireless interface according to its configuration may send or transmit the request to a remote source (via an intermediate device and / or network, or otherwise).

[0067] After a certain amount of time has elapsed, the control system may receive a response to the request on the wireless or wired interface (step 714). The vehicle control system can be configured to give the request validity, authenticity, decipher the request, or carry out any number of steps so that the requested information can be recognized. The response and / or response information may be stored in memory (step 716) and / or processed (step 718). The response may be provided to the audio interface for reproduction on the audio system and / or provided to the video interface for display on the display system (step 720). During the recording and processing stages (stages 716 and 718), the response may be prepared for reproducing it as a sound and / or display, adding information to the response, generating an image, storing the response in the database, syntactically analyzing the response as pieces of information and the like .

[0068] In FIG. 8A, according to an embodiment, a process 800 is shown in which an intermediate device (e.g., a mobile phone) with a vehicle control system and a remote source is used. After the control system sends a request to wireless or

- a wired interface (e.g., step 712 of FIG. 7), when an intermediate device is used to connect the control system to the remote source, the intermediate device receives the request from the vehicle control system (step 802). When the request is received, the intermediate device may perform its parsing (step 804). According to various embodiments, the request is analyzed sufficiently to be forwarded to the appropriate network, CFR and / or remote source. However, according to other embodiments, the intermediate device may add information to the request. The information added to the request by an intermediate device may contain data about the position of the intermediate device (e.g. a cell phone with a GPS receiver may provide vehicle position data, for example if the vehicle is not equipped with a GPS receiver or its GPS receiver is less accurate). If the intermediate device is configured to add information to the request and / or reformat the request according to the wireless protocol used to forward the request to the remote source, the process may include the step of creating a second request using additional information and the syntactically analyzed request (step 806) . The intermediate device may then be configured to forward the request to the remote source (step 808). The remote source will receive the request, perform one or more processing operations for that request, and send a response to the intermediate device. The intermediate device will receive a response from the remote source (step 810). After receiving the response, the intermediate device can send the response to the vehicle control system with minimal interference. According to other embodiments, the intermediate device may modify the response, reformat the response and / or add information to the response (step 812). The information added to the response may contain pictorial information (e.g., superimposed information, informational direction arrow, audio information, updated position information based on the use of an intermediate device GPS receiver, etc.). The intermediate device may then provide the response (modified or not) to the vehicle control system (step 814).

[0069] In FIG. 8B, according to an embodiment, a process 850 for handling requests from a vehicle control system and / or intermediate device is shown. Process 850 represents the external processing carried out by the remote source. Regardless of whether the requests are sent directly from the vehicle control system, via the network and / or through an intermediate device, the remote source is usually configured to receive requests from the remote source (step 852). Then, you can do a parsing request (step 854). Syntax analysis can include any number of demodulation, decryption, unpacking, or other operations to recognize a hidden request. After the request is recognized by the remote source, it can access, request or retrieve information related to the request (step 856). Accessing information related to the request may include sending queries to the database, sending the request to one or more subsequent servers, performing parsing of one or more files, or the like. The remote source can be configured to process information and / or request when accessing or accessing information (step 858).

- 17 The processing of information and / or requests may include determining that more information is required, accessing another database, determining the best access path, taking into account traffic information, taking into account weather information, taking into account vehicle speed information, taking into account other information about vehicles and / or time consideration.

[0070] The remote source may be configured to, after processing the request in step 858, format the response (step 860) for transmission (step 862) back to the vehicle control system and / or intermediate device or network. The formatting and / or transfer steps may include any number of modulation, packaging, compressing, encryption, formatting for the protocol or other similar requests.

[0071] In FIG. 9, according to an embodiment, a process 900 for providing navigation information from a remote source to a vehicle control system is shown. Process 900 includes initiating the request by the vehicle control system (step 902). The process 900 further includes establishing a data connection between the vehicle control system and the cellular network (step 904). After establishing a connection to the network or wireless service system, the vehicle control system and the navigation server can be connected via the cellular network (step 906). Regarding process 900, after establishing the connection (or while establishing the connection) the server may establish the authenticity of the vehicle control system (step 908). According to an embodiment, the possibility of using a remote source and / or a service provided from a remote source is a subscription service that requires payment of a monthly or annual fee or fee for each use, which generates income for the owner of the navigation data service sent from a remote source (e.g. server) navigation). According to various embodiments, the process 900 may further include the steps of transmitting authentication information to a remote source for verification.

[0072] In FIG. 9 illustrates an example process in which a user requests that the vehicle control system provide accommodation information. In this example, the vehicle control system may send a request indicating the need to receive accommodation information (step 910). It should be noted that the process 900 can be modified and / or the vehicle control system can be configured to handle any number of user requests that are not limited to accommodation information. When the request is received by the navigation server, the server may determine accommodation information using a database, downstream server, information from the Internet or other means (step 912). Accommodation information may include address information, phone number information, rate information, name information, images (e.g. logo, clipart, room photo, data related to speech recognition and / or speech synthesis, etc.). Accommodation information may include multiple-choice attributes regarding accommodation options. The server may provide a response to the vehicle control system (step 914) via pre-established connections (e.g., steps 904 to 908). The vehicle control system can store the delivered response on the device

- 18 memory or database. The vehicle control system may also be configured to display information and options related to the request and response and / or to play them back in sound form (step 916). For example, if accommodation information regarding multiple choices is received in a vehicle control system, the vehicle control system may display a list of multiple choices of accommodation and / or play it in audio form. Displaying information on accommodation may include displaying the choice of accommodation on the map. Reproduction of information on accommodation in the form of sound may include providing an audio signal to the user, the audio signal including the name of the chosen accommodation, distance to the accommodation and the rate for accommodation.

[0073] Referring to FIG. 9, the vehicle control system may include one or more graphic or audio user interfaces to allow the user to make a selection from the list (step 918). For example, the vehicle control system may be configured to allow the user to manually or voice command that the control system inside the vehicle make a phone call, create a text message or send data or requests to the selected accommodation. User interfaces can be configured to allow the vehicle user to freely communicate with the selected accommodation and make reservations or the like. According to an embodiment, the remote source or navigation server is configured to negotiate the reservation conditions with the selected accommodation. If the navigation server is configured for this, the user can find out whether he should continue his journey to the selected accommodation or choose another accommodation option. According to various embodiments, a communication connection to a remote source, wireless service system or to the network can be used to open an internet search engine so that the user can see (or hear information read by the text speech module in the audio system) information about selected options, booking options, their availability and the like.

[0074] Once the accommodation has been selected, the configuration of the vehicle control system may allow a direction request or route information to be sent based on the selection made (step 920). The navigation server can receive selection information (or simply receive the address or GPS coordinate sent by the vehicle control system and / or intermediate device). Based on the information received, the server may perform one or more processing operations to determine the best route that the vehicle should travel to the selected accommodation (step 922). Calculating the best route can include calculating travel time based on distance, calculating travel time based on traffic, calculating travel time based on weather, calculating travel time based on safety rules, calculating travel time based on the number of turns, stop signs , traffic lights, information on speed limits and / or any other attribute. The navigation server provides route information to the vehicle control system (step 924). Route information can be formatted to any number

- 19 ways. For example, route information may be provided from the navigation system to the vehicle control system and include maps, images, turn data, a text document configured for route description, a database file configured for route description, a document with markers configured for route description or the like. Using the received route information, the vehicle control system may display and / or play back the route information (or fragments thereof) on the display and / or in the audio system (step 926). For example, the vehicle control system may be configured to display the received map image on the display. For example, the vehicle control system may be configured to draw a route on a map previously saved in the vehicle control system. The vehicle control system may store the received route information in a database, perform local processing on the vehicle control system and / or request further information from an intermediate device and / or remote source. The vehicle control system may also be configured to update the displayed position of the vehicle on the map and / or along the displayed route (step 928). In addition, the vehicle control system may be configured to send audio information (e.g., turn instructions) to the vehicle's audio system (step 928).

[0075] In FIG. 10, according to an embodiment, a block diagram of a vehicle control system 106, comprising radio system 1002 and memory 132, is shown. Memory 132 includes radio system database 1004. Radio system database 1004 may be an array, database or other suitable structure in which the information of the RDS radio data system is stored radio data service) together with the frequency of broadcasting relevant radio stations and the geographical location of the radio station or its transmitter. For example, for vehicles in North America, relevant radio stations are those located in the United States, Canada and / or Mexico. Geographical location can be saved as latitude and longitude information that can be used by GPS receivers and other GPS-based devices (including GPS 510).

[0076] RDS information may allow identification of the call signal, type of broadcast and other information (e.g., current song or radio broadcast) regarding the radio station. Usually, RDS information transmitted by radio stations is part of the broadcast signal. Vehicle radio sets equipped with RDS (e.g. radio system 1002) obtain RDS information from the transmission signal and display this information to the driver and / or vehicle user using a display device contained in the radio system.

[0077] The vehicle control system 106 may use GPS information generated by the GPS 510 system (or PND or other portable GPS receiver located in the vehicle). After receiving geographical location information that identifies the current geographical location of the vehicle using the GPS 510 system, vehicle control system 106 uses the geographical location information as input to the radio system database 1004 to obtain RDS information and

- 20 information about the frequency of broadcasting radio stations, which information is believed to be received by radio system 1002. The obtained information about RDS and transmission frequency is provided by memory 132 to the vehicle control system 106, which displays this information to the driver and / or to the user using an output display and / or other display device included in the vehicle's radio system 1002.

[0078] In various embodiments, the vehicle control system 106 may search in the radio system database 1004 not only of nearby radio stations, but also of nearby radio stations that emit a particular genre (search based on a particular genre). Typical genres may include classic rock, contemporary rock, alternative music, music from the 70s, music from the 80s, hits, news, sports news, public radio (NPR). national public radio), country music, country and western music, and the like. The driver or user of the vehicle may send a command by voice or touch using the various structures described in FIG. 2 and in other places to select the genre.

[0079] Radio system database 1004 can be configured to update information stored in database 1004 at regular intervals because radio stations can change broadcast species, call signal, location of transmitters and their power and other properties over a given period. There can be many ways to update the 1004 database, for example, manually, through a wireless connection to another database, and the like.

[0080] It should be noted that the older vehicle model may not be equipped with all the elements of the vehicle control system and related elements described in FIG. 2, or the radio system 1002 connected to the radio system database 1004. In this case, the functions and possibilities shown in FIG. 10A can be integrated in an autonomous radio set that can connect (via wired or wireless connection) to the GPS 510 system. It should also be noted that websites and services (e.g. a website providing elements of radio station location data and / or other information about a radio station) that have a database in a format that allows searching for radio stations, broadcast genres, distances to cities, etc., can be used to update the 1004 database or to enlarge them for GPS location information of radio stations, for broadcasting range and / or for other desired information about radio stations. It should also be noted that in various embodiments, a portable wireless device used with the vehicle control system 106 can be used as a driver identification device, when a specific portable wireless device associated with a particular driver is placed in the vehicle, the vehicle control system 106 could obtain data from memory 132 and activate them. For example, such data may be specific navigation data recently used by a specific driver, playlist, etc.

[0081] In some cases, when the vehicle is used over a long distance or in an area where the driver or user does not know local radio stations, there is no

- 21 no guarantee that the vehicle cannot be driven out of the broadcasting range of the radio station at a given time.

[0082] In FIG. 10B, according to an embodiment, a block diagram of a method 1050 for determining available radio stations based on the route shown or the destination shown. Information about the current position is received by the vehicle control system from the GPS system (step 1052). Location information can be used to calculate the course, direction, route or destination of a vehicle. The vehicle control system may access the radio system database to receive radio information related to the position of the vehicle (step 1054). For example, you can find radio information about a radio station "in front" of the vehicle (eg, in the direction of travel). Alternatively, radio stations can be found within a radius of the vehicle, by zip code or city boundaries related to the vehicle position, based on the transmit signal strength or any other property of the radio station location.

[0083] The received radio information may be transmitted to the vehicle's video and / or audio system (step 1056). The radio system database search function may also be enabled to enable the driver or vehicle user to find radio information (step 1058). According to various embodiments, the search function can be made available to the driver or user at any time. Based on the vehicle location data and the search function input data, you can access and receive radio information for the changing location of the vehicle (1060). According to various embodiments, the driver or user may have access to information at any time. You can select a radio station in which the vehicle's transmission range enters and does not move away from it. The radio information may be RDS information described in FIG. 10A.

[0084] The radio system database may then be updated (step 1062). According to various embodiments, the update may occur at different time intervals, automatically or as a result of a manual command being sent by the user. In various embodiments, the entire database can be updated at once. In various other embodiments, the vehicle control system may provide current vehicle GPS location data obtained from the GPS system. The remote source can download to the radio system database information about radio stations located near the current location of the vehicle, so that information about nearby radio stations can be updated. In yet other various embodiments, the radio system database may be updated only for those stations about which information has changed (e.g. call sign, broadcast genre, etc.) from a given day or period.

[0085] The radio information can be searched for in an external source (e.g., via a wireless connection, etc.) (step 1064). For example, the radio system database can be updated when calling the service from a sales representative or from another location that serves the vehicles of a given brand or manufacturer. In this case, the vehicle control system memory may contain a reprogrammable ROM memory,

- 22 flash memory and the like that can be used to store database information. A direct connection or wired or wireless connection may be established with the vehicle control system to provide information to the radio system database. In other various embodiments, the driver or user forwards the command to the vehicle control system to establish a wireless or wired connection to the data source. For example, the vehicle control system may use a communication device and a mobile phone that can connect to the vehicle control system to access updated information from the radio system database.

[0086] Course based search can be combined with genre search as shown in FIG. 10A. The driver or user may use the various control structures described in FIG. 2 to initiate a course-based search.

[0087] In FIG. 11, according to an embodiment, is a process of transferring 1100 files from one remote source to another remote source. In the event that the vehicle control system encounters difficulty when accessing files from a remote source while driving, if the vehicle control system does not have the function of downloading and displaying 'on the fly' or in any other case, the user of the vehicle control system may download information to the device portable before traveling in a vehicle. For example, a driver can download direction information to a mobile phone or laptop and then connect (wirelessly or wired) a phone or laptop before or during a ride to receive the desired information. One remote source access can be used to send information to another remote source. The in-vehicle control system, according to one embodiment, can be used to synchronize a data file from a first remote source, a second remote source and / or a vehicle control system. Process 1100 shown in FIG. 11 relates to a process of transferring a file or other data from a GPS system or other source to a radio system database as described in FIG. 10A and 10B. The vehicle control system establishes a communication link to the first remote source (step 1102). The remote source may be the remote source of FIG. 5 or any other remote source. The vehicle control system identifies the data files to search on the first remote source (step 1104) and searches for the data (step 1106). The vehicle control system may then store the data file in memory (step 1108). The vehicle control system then establishes a communication link to the second remote source (step 1110). The vehicle control system identifies the data files to be transmitted to the second remote source (step 1112) and transmits the data files (step 1114).

[0088] In FIG. 12 shows a vehicle 100 comprising several subsystems providing comfort and entertainment to the user. Vehicle 100 has a control system inside the vehicle 106 (e.g., media system, navigation system, entertainment system) described in FIG. 1-4. The vehicle 100 has an entertainment system that transmits radio waves through ceiling speakers 1202 and speakers 1204 not located on the ceiling. Location of 1202 ceiling speakers and speakers

- 23 1204 not located on the ceiling may vary depending on the different uses of the 1202 and 1204 speakers. For example, the 1202 ceiling speaker can be located at different locations in the roof of the vehicle 100, and the 1204 speakers not located in the ceiling, as shown, are located in the rear parts and doors of vehicle 100, but may be installed anywhere else on vehicle 100. The entertainment system can be coupled to a control system inside the vehicle 106, which can automatically or manually control both systems and monitor them. It has been noted that in various embodiments the vehicle 100, entertainment system and other vehicle systems may be compatible with the design used in the past or present or to be used in the future, as long as it allows interaction with the control system inside the vehicle 106. Any device that is in the past, present or future design that can produce sound falls within the concept of 'speaker'. The entertainment system can be a radio, digital video player, digital audio player, video game or any combination thereof. The entertainment system includes an audio data source configured to generate a signal and a ceiling audio output device that is configured to generate audible sound from a signal received from the audio data source.

[0089] In FIG. 13, according to one embodiment, shows a method 1300 of speech-initiated dialing from a mobile phone book. The in-vehicle control system 106 will automatically dial the number in a hands-free telephone set using speech recognition and user commands. According to various embodiments, method 1300 can be used together with various components and systems (e.g. HVAC system, calendar system, etc.) to enable speech-initiated information.

[0090] In-vehicle control system 106 receives commands to initiate a user's telephone call using audio input device 128 (step 1302). A prompt is sent from the control system inside the vehicle 106 to prompt the user to enter the name (step 1304). The hint can be played on an audio output device 130 or audio system. The user can make a phone call by entering the name (e.g. "Call <name entered>") (step 1306). The control system inside the vehicle 106 prompts the user to confirm the position name given in step 1306 (step 1308). The in-vehicle control system 106 may receive verbal confirmation or confirmation entered on the user interface 126 (e.g., by a button or switch) by the user that the correct position name has been provided (step 1310). If confirmation was received during step 1310, the speech recognition device 136 compares the command with the mobile phone book entries and system phone book entries, and identifies the desired mobile phone book entry (step 1312). If there are similar entries in the system telephone directory and mobile telephone directory, the speech recognition device may select the most compatible entry. The speech recognition device determines if there is more than one number associated with the desired position (e.g., the position includes home number and work number) (step 1314). Where there is more than one

- 24 number related to the position, the control system inside the vehicle 106 can make a list of numbers for this position, which will be given as an audible hint on the audio output device 130 or as a visual hint on the output display 108. In the embodiment where the audio hint is given, a text speech device can be used to convert numbers to audio output. The user can then dial the appropriate number by providing a voice command or using the user interface 126 (e.g., button or switch) (step 1316). After determining the number, the in-vehicle control system 106 sends the phone number to cell phone 144 via communication link 118 and the number is dialed (step 1318).

[0091] According to FIG. 14, the in-vehicle control system 106 is also configured to provide the user with a list of items from the mobile phone book upon request. According to one embodiment, a method of 1400 illustrating a list of telephone entries from a mobile telephone directory is illustrated. The in-vehicle control system 106 receives an verbal command from the user through the audio input device 128 to compile a list based on the contents of the mobile phone book (step 1402). In response to an oral command, the control system inside the vehicle 106 reproduces the text of each position (step 1404). Text (e.g. name text) of each item is converted to an audio representation using a text speech device 138 that can be played in the vehicle on the audio output device 130 or sound system. Preferably, the position text is also shown on the output display 108 in alphanumeric order, character by character. There is a pre-defined amount of time between the presentation of one item and the next. The control system inside the vehicle 106 is configured to allow the user to interrupt the audible presentation of the phone book position, taking into account the possibility of interference (step 1406). The user may interfere during the reproduction of the position text or during a predetermined period of time after the position has been restored to carry out the command entered orally into the input audio device 128 or through the user interface 126 (e.g. button or switch). If the user enters a command and interferes, the control system inside the vehicle 106 recognizes and performs the requested action (step 1408). For example, the user may give the command to move to the next position or move to the position starting with the next alphanumeric character. The user can also give the command to select the desired item after hearing it or repeating the previous item. If the entry is selected, the user can then, for example, make a call or send the entry to the system's phone book. During step 1410, the in-vehicle control system 106 determines whether the last position was given or whether the position was selected. If the last position was given or if the position was selected, the control system inside the vehicle 106 completes the 1400 method. If the last item was not provided, method 1400 returns to step 1404 and continues until the item is selected or the last item is displayed from the mobile phone book.

[0092] Although many of the embodiments described in the application relate to outside routing for navigation purposes, it should be noted that the systems and methods described in the application can be modified for other operations. For example, the system

- the vehicle control may include appropriate user interfaces and / or communication computer hardware and / or communication software to request financial information (e.g. information on stock prices), information on world news, information on local news, information on phone book, calendar information, weather information, information on e-mail addresses and / or information in the form of text messages, and the like. This information can be sent from a remote source to the vehicle control system in response to a request initiated at the remote source. In addition, it should be noted that the remote source can be any object or any device equipped with appropriate computer communication equipment and / or software for transmitting information to the vehicle control system (or connected intermediate device, connected CFR, etc.). According to the invention, the remote source is configured to store and / or search for weather information (e.g., weather radar images, weather database information, weather descriptions, tag files with weather description, etc.). The vehicle control system is configured to request weather information from a remote source. The vehicle control system is configured to display and / or play back weather information on the vehicle display system and / or vehicle audio system. According to the invention, weather information is shown on the display together with navigation information. The vehicle control system receives weather images and overlays these images on the navigation map. According to yet another embodiment, the vehicle control system uses weather information to generate weather icons and / or other weather graphics to superimpose on the map image.

[0093] The description of the invention with reference to the figures should not be interpreted as imposing restrictions on the invention that can be suggested by the figures. The invention considers methods, systems and software products for performing operations associated with computer readable media content. Embodiments of the invention can be implemented using existing computer processors or computer processors of a particular application suitable for a vehicle system, used for various purposes, or used in a system system.

[0094] It should be noted that the structure and layout of the control system shown in the various embodiments are given for illustrative purposes only. Although only a few embodiments of the invention are described in detail in the disclosure, those of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that there are many possible modifications (e.g. changes in the size, dimensions, structures, shapes and proportions of various elements, parameter values, assembly layout, materials used, colors, referral, etc.), which do not involve a significant departure from the idea and benefits of the subject, cited in the claims. For example, the components shown with an integral structure may be constructed of multiple parts or components (e.g. control system 106, memory device 132, communication device 120, data processing device 122, remote source 116, remote server 154, etc.), the position of the elements may be reversed or otherwise changed (e.g. control system elements 106, etc.) and the nature or number of discrete ones

- 26 items or items may be changed or different (e.g. communication device 120, memory device 132, control system components 106, etc.). Consequently, all such modifications are included within the scope of the invention by the appended claims. The order or order of the process or method steps may vary or vary depending on alternative embodiments. In the claims, any clause that specifies a technical element in terms of functionality includes structures described herein as such that perform a given function and not only structural equivalents, but also equivalent structures. Other substitutes, modifications, changes and omissions may be included in the design, operating conditions and arrangement of embodiments without departing from the scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims.

[0095] As noted above, embodiments falling within the scope of the invention include software products comprising computer readable transfer media or having recorded computer executable instructions or data structures. Such computer-readable media may be any available media that can be accessed by a general-purpose computer or computer of a specific application or other processor machine. For example, such computer-readable media may include RAM, ROM, EPROM, EEPROM, CD-ROM or other optical or magnetic disk recording devices, or any other medium that can be used to transfer or save the desired program code in the form of computer executable instructions or data structures that can be accessed by means of a general-purpose computer or computer of a specific application or another processor machine. When information is transmitted or provided over a network or other communication connection (system, wireless or system and wireless) to the machine, the machine recognizes the connection as a computer-readable medium. Thus, any such connection is called computer readable medium. Combinations of the foregoing are also encompassed by the concept of computer readable media. Computer executable instructions contain, for example, instructions and data that cause a general purpose computer or computer of a particular application or a machine that processes a particular application to perform a certain function or group of functions.

[0096] It should be noted that although the diagrams show the specific order of the method steps, it is assumed that the order of these steps may differ from those shown. Two or more stages may also take place simultaneously or partly simultaneously. Such variation depends on the selected software and hardware systems and the choice of the designer. All such variations are within the scope of the invention. Similarly, implementations of the software according to the invention are possible due to standard programming techniques with rule-based logic or other logic allowing connection stages, processing stages, comparison stages and decision making stages.

Prepared and verified

Anna Stenzel

Patent Attorney