GB2546979A

GB2546979A - Control system for a vehicle and method

Info

Publication number: GB2546979A
Application number: GB1601750.1A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Cooke Charlotte; Burford Robert; Johnson Christopher; Armstrong David
Original assignee: Jaguar Land Rover Ltd
Current assignee: Jaguar Land Rover Ltd
Priority date: 2016-02-01
Filing date: 2016-02-01
Publication date: 2017-08-09
Anticipated expiration: 2036-02-01
Also published as: GB2546979B; GB201601750D0; WO2017133912A1

Abstract

A vehicle control system for at least one vehicle subsystem of a vehicle, the vehicle control system comprising: a subsystem controller 10 for initiating control of the a vehicle subsystem (such as brakes, suspension, engine management or transmission) in a selected one of a plurality of subsystem control modes 12a-e, each of which corresponds to one or more different driving conditions for the vehicle. For a given control mode at least one control parameter of a vehicle subsystem is set by the controller to a predetermined state corresponding to that control mode. An evaluation means 18 automatically evaluates at least one driving condition indicator 16 to determine the most appropriate or optimum value of at least one control parameter of a vehicle subsystem, the subsystem controller 10 being configured to adjust the state of a control parameter of a vehicle subsystem in accordingly. Preferably the control modes include, grass, gravel, rocks, sand or snow modes. Preferably the control mode is selected by a driver and a control mode has a number of sub-modes which are selected automatically according to the evaluation of the driving conditions. Driving condition indicators may include wheel speed, vehicle speed, vehicle roll, pitch or yaw and tyre pressure.

Description

CONTROL SYSTEM FOR A VEHICLE AND METHOD

INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE

The content of co-pending UK patent applications GB2507622 and GB2499461 are hereby incorporated by reference. The content of US patent no US7349776 and co-pending international patent applications WO2013124321 and WO2014/139875 are incorporated herein by reference. The content of UK patent applications GB2492748, GB2492655 and GB2499279 and UK patent GB2508464 are also incorporated herein by reference.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure relates to a vehicle control system and control method and particularly, but not exclusively, to a control system and a method for controlling operation of one or more vehicle systems or subsystems in a land-based vehicle capable of driving in a variety of different and extreme terrains and conditions. Aspects of the invention relate to a control system, a vehicle, a method, a non-transitory computer readable carrier medium carrying a computer readable code, a computer program product executable on a processor, a computer readable medium and a processor.

BACKGROUND

It is known to provide a control system for a motor vehicle for controlling one or more vehicle subsystems. US7349776 discloses a vehicle control system comprising a plurality of subsystem controllers including an engine management system, a transmission controller, a steering controller, a brakes controller and a suspension controller. The subsystem controllers are each operable in a plurality of subsystem function or configuration modes. The subsystem controllers are connected to a vehicle mode controller which controls the subsystem controllers to assume a required function mode so as to provide a number of driving modes for the vehicle. Each of the driving modes corresponds to a particular driving condition or set of driving conditions, and in each mode each of the sub-systems is set to the function mode most appropriate to those conditions. Such conditions are linked to types of terrain over which the vehicle may be driven such as grass/gravel/snow, mud and ruts, rock crawl, sand and a highway mode known as ‘special programs off (SPO). The vehicle mode controller may be referred to as a Terrain Response (TR) (RTM) System or controller. The driving modes may also be referred to as terrain modes, terrain response modes, or control modes.

As noted above, for each of the driving modes each of the sub-systems is set to the function mode most appropriate to those conditions. The present applicant has recognised that the particular configuration of a subsystem in a given driving mode may not be optimum for the actual prevailing conditions.

It is against this background that the present invention has been conceived. Embodiments of the invention may provide, inter alia, a control system, a method or a vehicle which addresses the above problems. Other aims and advantages of embodiments of the invention will become apparent from the following description, claims and drawings.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In one aspect of the invention for which protection is sought there is provided a vehicle control system for at least one vehicle subsystem of a vehicle; the vehicle control system comprising: a subsystem controller for initiating control of the or each of the vehicle subsystems in a selected one of a plurality of subsystem control modes, each of which corresponds to one or more different driving conditions for the vehicle, at least one of the plurality of subsystem control modes comprising a plurality of respective different subsystem control sub-modes corresponding to the driving condition of the control mode for which they are sub-modes, evaluation means for evaluating at least one driving condition indicator to determine the extent to which each of the subsystem control modes is appropriate and for providing an output indicative of the subsystem control mode that is most appropriate, the system being further configured to determine, in the event that a subsystem control mode comprising a plurality of respective different subsystem control sub-modes is determined to be the most appropriate, which of the plurality of sub-modes of said control mode is most appropriate based on the at least one driving condition indicator.

Some embodiments of the present invention have the advantage that a substantial enhancement in vehicle operation may be enjoyed. This is at least in part because, within each control mode, the at least one vehicle subsystem may be controlled in a manner that is further optimised for the prevailing driving conditions according to the plurality of sub-modes of the control mode.

In another aspect of the invention for which protection is sought there is provided a vehicle control system for at least one vehicle subsystem of a vehicle, the vehicle control system comprising: a subsystem controller for initiating control of the at least one vehicle subsystem in a selected one of a plurality of subsystem control modes, each of which corresponds to one or more different driving conditions for the vehicle, wherein for a given control mode at least one control parameter of the at least one vehicle subsystem is set by the controller to a predetermined state or value corresponding to that control mode; and evaluation means configured to evaluate automatically at least one driving condition indicator determine the most appropriate state or value of at least one control parameter of at least one said at least one vehicle subsystem, the subsystem controller being configured to adjust the state or value of said at least one control parameter of at least one said at least one vehicle subsystem in dependence on the most appropriate state or value determined by the evaluation means.

The subsystem controller may be configured to adjust the state or value of said at least one control parameter of at least one said at least one vehicle subsystem in dependence on the most appropriate state or value determined by the evaluation means substantially in real time whilst the at least one vehicle subsystem is operated in the selected one of the plurality of subsystem control modes.

This feature has the advantage that the control system is able to optimise at least in part the operation of at least one vehicle subsystem according to the at least one driving condition indicator when operating in a given subsystem control mode.

Optionally, at least one of the plurality of subsystem control modes comprises a plurality of respective different subsystem control sub-modes corresponding to the driving condition of the control mode for which they are sub-modes, wherein the evaluation means being configured to evaluate automatically at least one driving condition indicator to determine the most appropriate state or value of at least one control parameter of at least one said at least one vehicle subsystem comprises the evaluation means being configured to evaluate automatically at least one driving condition indicator to determine which of the subsystem control sub-modes of the selected control mode is most appropriate, wherein when a control mode comprising a plurality of sub-modes is selected, the control system provides an output indicative of the subsystem control sub-mode of that control mode that is most appropriate.

In an aspect of the invention for which protection is sought there is provided a vehicle control system for at least one vehicle subsystem of a vehicle, the vehicle control system comprising: a subsystem controller for initiating control of at least one vehicle subsystem in a selected one of a plurality of subsystem control modes, each of which corresponds to one or more different driving conditions for the vehicle, at least one of the plurality of subsystem control modes comprising a plurality of respective different subsystem control sub-modes corresponding to the one or more driving conditions of the control mode for which they are sub-modes; and evaluation means for evaluating automatically at least one driving condition indicator to determine which of the subsystem control sub-modes of the selected control mode is most appropriate, wherein when a control mode comprising a plurality of sub-modes is selected, the control system provides an output indicative of the subsystem control sub-mode of that control mode that is most appropriate.

Embodiments of the present invention have the advantage that a substantial enhancement in vehicle operation may be enjoyed because, when a control mode is selected that comprises a plurality of sub-modes, the evaluation means determines automatically which of the plurality of sub-modes is most appropriate. Accordingly, the at least one vehicle subsystem may be controlled in a manner that is further optimised for the prevailing driving conditions according to the most appropriate sub-mode.

It is to be understood that the subsystem controller may initiate control of each of the vehicle subsystems in one of a plurality of subsystem control modes by setting at least one control parameter of each subsystem to a predetermined, stored, value or state applicable to that control mode, each subsystem control mode corresponding to one or more different driving conditions for the vehicle.

It is to be understood that in one of the plurality of sub-modes of a given control mode having a plurality of sub-modes the one or more vehicle subsystems may be operated in a manner that is similar to or identical to that in which the one or more vehicle subsystems would be operated if that control mode were selected in a vehicle not having a plurality of sub-modes of that control mode. That sub-mode may be considered to be a ‘default’ sub-mode.

In some embodiments, the control system may be configured initially to cause the one or more vehicle subsystems to operate in the default sub-mode of a control mode having a plurality of sub-modes if that control mode is determined to be the most appropriate. The control system may then determine the most appropriate sub-mode and cause the one or more vehicle subsystems to operate in that sub-mode, which may or may not be the default sub-mode.

It is to be understood that the control modes may also be referred to as driving modes.

Optionally, when a control mode comprising a plurality of sub-modes is selected, the subsystem controller initiates automatically control of the or each of the vehicle subsystems in the subsystem control sub-mode of that control mode that is most appropriate.

The control system may be configured to receive an input from a user input means indicative of the selected control mode.

It is to be understood that, if a user selects a control mode having a plurality of sub-modes, the control system determines automatically which of the plurality of sub-modes associated with that control mode is most appropriate for the prevailing terrain. Thus, rather than cause the vehicle to operate in a substantially fixed configuration when a given control mode is selected, the control system may determine, according to the terrain indicators, which of the plurality of sub-modes is most appropriate and cause the one or more sub-systems to operate according to that sub-mode. This feature has the advantage that the control system is able to optimise vehicle performance in the control mode (driving mode) selected by the user automatically, reducing the user’s workload.

Optionally, the input means comprises at least one selected from amongst a rotary switch selector device, a lever-type switch selector device, one or more button devices and one or more touchscreen devices.

The one or more button devices may include one or more softkeys. By softkey is meant an input device wherein the function implemented by the device at a given moment in time may change dynamically under the control of the controller, rather than being a permanently fixed function.

Optionally the evaluation means is further configured automatically to evaluate at least one driving condition indicator to determine which of the subsystem control modes is most appropriate.

The control system may be configured to cause the subsystem controller to initiate automatically control of the or each of the vehicle subsystems in the subsystem control mode that is most appropriate, wherein if the control mode that is determined to be most appropriate comprises a plurality of sub-modes, the controller initiates automatically control of the or each of the vehicle subsystems in the subsystem control sub-mode of that control mode that is most appropriate.

Optionally, the control modes comprise at least one control mode adapted for driving on a driving surface of relatively low surface coefficient of friction.

It is to be understood that the control modes may be referred to as driving modes since they correspond to different driving conditions. A control mode may be provided in which the subsystems are adapted (configured) for driving under a given driving condition, such as over a particular terrain type. For example, a control mode may be provided in which the subsystems are configured for driving over grass, gravel or snow, a mode adapted for driving over mud/ruts, a mode adapted for driving over sand, and a mode adapted for driving slowly over rocks, such as a ‘rock crawl’ mode.

Optionally, the control modes comprise at least one driving mode adapted for driving on at least one of a snowy surface, an icy surface, grass, gravel, snow, mud and sand.

Optionally, the subsystems include at least one of a powertrain subsystem, a brakes subsystem, a power assisted steering (PAS) subsystem and a suspension subsystem.

The control system may comprise an electronic processor having an electrical input for receiving a signal indicative of at least one said at least one driving condition indicator, and an electronic memory device electrically coupled to the electronic processor and having instructions stored therein, wherein the processor is configured to access the memory device and execute the instructions stored therein such that it is operable to evaluate automatically at least one driving condition indicator to determine the most appropriate state or value of at least one control parameter of at least one said at least one vehicle subsystem, the method comprising adjusting the state or value of said at least one control parameter of at least one said at least one vehicle subsystem in dependence on the most appropriate state or value determined by the evaluation means.

Thus it is to be understood that the evaluation means may be implemented by the electronic processor executing the instructions stored in the memory device.

Optionally, the electronic processor has an electrical input for receiving a signal from the input means for permitting a user to provide an input to the control system indicative of the selected control mode.

In a further aspect of the invention for which protection is sought there is provided a vehicle comprising a control system according to a preceding aspect.

In another aspect of the invention for which protection is sought there is provided a method of controlling a plurality of subsystems of a vehicle by means of a control system, the method comprising: initiating control of the at least one vehicle subsystem in a selected one of a plurality of subsystem control modes, each of which corresponds to one or more different driving conditions for the vehicle, whereby for a given control mode at least one control parameter of the at least one vehicle subsystem is set to a predetermined state or value corresponding to that control mode; evaluating automatically at least one driving condition indicator to determine the most appropriate state or value of at least one control parameter of at least one said at least one vehicle subsystem; and adjusting the value or state of said at least one control parameter of at least one said at least one vehicle subsystem in dependence on the most appropriate state or value determined by the evaluation means.

The method may comprise setting the value or state of said at least one control parameter of at least one said at least one vehicle subsystem to the most appropriate state or value determined by the evaluation means.

Optionally, at least one of the plurality of subsystem control modes comprises a plurality of respective different subsystem control sub-modes corresponding to the driving condition of the control mode for which they are sub-modes, whereby evaluating automatically at least one driving condition indicator to determine the most appropriate state or value of at least one control parameter of at least one said at least one vehicle subsystem comprises evaluating automatically at least one driving condition indicator to determine which of the subsystem control sub-modes of the selected control mode is most appropriate, whereby when a control mode comprising a plurality of sub-modes is selected, the method comprises providing an output indicative of the subsystem control sub-mode of that control mode that is most appropriate.

In one aspect of the invention for which protection is sought there is provided a method of controlling a plurality of subsystems of a vehicle by means of a control system, the method comprising: initiating control of at least one vehicle subsystem in a selected one of a plurality of subsystem control modes, each of which corresponds to one or more different driving conditions for the vehicle, at least one of the plurality of subsystem control modes comprising a plurality of respective different subsystem control sub-modes corresponding to the one or more driving conditions of the control mode for which they are sub-modes; and evaluating automatically at least one driving condition indicator to determine which of the subsystem control sub-modes of the selected control mode is most appropriate, whereby when a control mode comprising a plurality of sub-modes is selected, the method comprises providing an output indicative of the subsystem control sub-mode of that control mode that is most appropriate.

Optionally, when a control mode comprising a plurality of sub-modes is selected, the method comprises initiating automatically control of the or each of the vehicle subsystems in the subsystem control sub-mode of that control mode that is most appropriate.

The method may comprise receiving an input from user input means indicative of the selected control mode.

The method may comprise evaluating automatically the least one driving condition indicator to determine which of the subsystem control modes is most appropriate.

The method may comprise initiating automatically control of the or each of the vehicle subsystems in the subsystem control mode that is most appropriate, whereby if the control mode that is determined to be most appropriate comprises a plurality of sub-modes, the method comprises initiating automatically control of the or each of the vehicle subsystems in the subsystem control sub-mode of that control mode that is most appropriate.

In an aspect of the invention for which protection is sought there is provided a non-transitory computer readable carrier medium carrying a computer readable code for controlling a vehicle to carry out the method of another aspect.

In an aspect of the invention for which protection is sought there is provided a computer program product executable on a processor so as to implement the method of another aspect.

In an aspect of the invention for which protection is sought there is provided a computer readable medium loaded with the computer program product of another aspect.

In an aspect of the invention for which protection is sought there is provided a processor arranged to implement the method of another aspect, or the computer program product of another aspect.

Within the scope of this application it is expressly intended that the various aspects, embodiments, examples and alternatives set out in the preceding paragraphs, in the claims and/or in the following description and drawings, and in particular the individual features thereof, may be taken independently or in any combination. That is, all embodiments and/or features of any embodiment can be combined in any way and/or combination, unless such features are incompatible. The applicant reserves the right to change any originally filed claim or file any new claim accordingly, including the right to amend any originally filed claim to depend from and/or incorporate any feature of any other claim although not originally claimed in that manner.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The present invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: FIGURE 1 is a schematic illustration of a vehicle according to an embodiment of the present invention; FIGURE 2 is a block diagram to illustrate a vehicle control system in accordance with an embodiment of the invention, including various vehicle subsystems under the control of the vehicle control system; and FIGURE 3 is a table showing which vehicle subsystem configuration mode is selected in each respective vehicle operating mode.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION FIG. 1 shows a vehicle 100 according to an embodiment of the invention intended to be suitable for off-road use, that is for use on terrains other than regular tarmac road, as well as on-road. The vehicle 100 has a powertrain 129 that includes an engine 121 that is connected to a driveline 130 having an automatic transmission 124. The transmission 124 has a transmission mode selector dial 124L permitting a driver to select the required transmission operating mode selected from park (P), forward drive (D), neutral (N) and reverse drive (R).

The driveline 130 is arranged to drive a pair of front vehicle wheels 111,112 by means of a front differential 135F and a pair of front drive shafts 118. The driveline 130 also comprises an auxiliary driveline portion 131 arranged to drive a pair of rear wheels 114, 115 by means of an auxiliary driveshaft or prop-shaft 132, a rear differential 135 and a pair of rear driveshafts 139. It is to be understood that embodiments of the present invention are suitable for use with vehicles in which the transmission 124 is arranged to drive only a pair of front wheels or only a pair of rear wheels (i.e. front wheel drive vehicles or rear wheel drive vehicles) or selectable two wheel drive/four wheel drive vehicles, or permanent four wheel drive vehicles. In the embodiment of FIG. 1 the transmission 124 is releasably connectable to the auxiliary driveline portion 131 by means of a power transfer unit (PTU) 137, allowing selectable two wheel drive or four wheel drive operation. It is to be Understood that embodiments of the invention may be suitable for vehicles having more than four wheels or less than four wheels.

The PTU 137 is operable in a ‘high ratio’ or a ‘low ratio’ configuration, in which a gear ratio between an input shaft and an output shaft thereof is selected to be a high or low ratio. The high ratio configuration is suitable for general on-road or ‘on-highway’ operations whilst the low ratio configuration is more suitable for negotiating certain off-road terrain conditions and other low speed applications such as towing.

The vehicle 100 has an accelerator pedal 161, a brake pedal 163 and a steering wheel 181. The steering wheel 181 has a cruise control selector button 181C mounted thereto for activating an on-highway cruise control system 10CC that is implemented in software by a vehicle central controller, referred to as a vehicle control unit (VCU) 10 described in more detail below. The steering wheel 181 is also provided with a low speed progress control system selector button 181LSP for selecting operation of a low speed progress (LSP) control system 10LSP which may also be referred to as an off-road speed control system or off-road cruise control system. The LSP control system 10LSP is also implemented in software by the VCU 10. In addition to the cruise control system 10CC and LSP control system 10LSP the VCU 10 is configured to implement a hill descent control (HDC) system 10HDC that limits maximum vehicle speed when descending an incline by automatic application of a brakes system 12d described in more detail below. The HDC system 10HDC may be activated via human machine interface (HMI) module 32.

The VCU 10 receives and outputs a plurality of signals to and from various sensors and subsystems 12 provided on the vehicle 100. FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram illustrating operation of the VCU 10 in more detail. The VCU 10 controls a plurality of vehicle subsystems 12 including, but not limited to, an engine management system 12a, a transmission system 12b, an electronic power assisted steering unit 12c (ePAS unit), the brakes system 12d and a suspension system 12e. These vehicle sub-systems can be considered to form a first group of subsystems. Although five subsystems are illustrated as being under the control of the VCU 10, in practice a greater number of vehicle subsystems may be included on the vehicle and may be under the control of the VCU 10. The VCU 10 includes a subsystem control module 14 which provides control signals via line 13 to each of the vehicle subsystems 12 to initiate control of the subsystems in a manner appropriate to the driving condition, such as the terrain, in which the vehicle is travelling (referred to as the terrain condition). The subsystems 12 also communicate with the subsystems control module 14 via signal line 13 to feedback information on subsystem status. In some embodiments, instead of an ePAS unit 12c, a hydraulically operated power steering unit may be provided.

The VCU 10 receives a plurality of signals, represented generally at 16 and 17, from a plurality of vehicle sensors and are representative of a variety of different parameters associated with vehicle motion and status. As described in further detail below, the signals 16, 17 provide, or are used to calculate, a plurality of driving condition indicators which are indicative of the nature of the condition in which the vehicle is travelling. One advantageous feature of some embodiments of the present invention is that the VCU 10 determines the most appropriate control mode for the various subsystems on the basis of the driving condition indicators, and automatically controls the subsystems accordingly. That is, the VCU 10 determines the most appropriate control mode on the basis of the driving condition indicators and automatically causes each of the subsystems 12 to operate in the respective subsystem configuration mode corresponding to that control mode.

The sensors (not shown) on the vehicle include, but are not limited to, sensors which provide continuous sensor outputs 16 to the VCU 10, including wheel speed sensors, an ambient temperature sensor, an atmospheric pressure sensor, tyre pressure sensors, yaw sensors to detect yaw, roll and pitch of the vehicle, a vehicle speed sensor, a longitudinal acceleration sensor, an engine torque sensor (or engine torque estimator), a steering angle sensor, a steering wheel speed sensor, a gradient sensor (or gradient estimator), a lateral acceleration sensor (part of a stability control system (SCS)), a brake pedal position sensor, an accelerator pedal position sensor and longitudinal, lateral and vertical motion sensors. In some other embodiments, only a selection of the aforementioned sensors may be used.

The VCU 10 also receives a signal from the electronic power assisted steering unit (ePAS unit 12c) of the vehicle 100 to indicate the steering force that is applied to the wheels (steering force applied by the driver combined with steering force applied by the ePAS unit 12c).

The vehicle 100 is also provided with a plurality of sensors which provide discrete sensor output signals 17 to the VCU 10, including a cruise control status signal (ON/OFF), a transfer box or PTU 137 status signal (whether the gear ratio is set to the high (HI) range or low (LO) range), a Hill Descent Control (HDC) status signal (ON/OFF), a trailer connect status signal (ON/OFF), a signal to indicate that the Stability Control System (SCS) has been activated (ON/OFF), a windscreen wiper signal (ON/OFF), an air suspension ride-height status signal (HI/LO), and a Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) signal (ON/OFF).

The VCU 10 includes an evaluation means in the form of an estimator module or processor 18 and a calculation and selection means in the form of a selector module or processor 20. Initially the continuous outputs 16 from the sensors are provided to the estimator module 18 whereas the discrete signals 17 are provided to the selector module 20.

Within a first stage of the estimator module 18, various ones of the sensor outputs 16 are used to derive a number of driving condition indicators. In a first stage of the estimator module 18, a vehicle speed is derived from the wheel speed sensors, wheel acceleration is derived from the wheel speed sensors, the longitudinal force on the wheels is derived from the vehicle longitudinal acceleration sensor, and the torque at which wheel slip occurs (if wheel slip occurs) is derived at least in part from a knowledge of instantaneous engine torque. Other calculations performed within the first stage of the estimator module 18 include the wheel inertia torque (the torque associated with accelerating or decelerating the rotating wheels), “continuity of progress” (the assessment of whether the vehicle is starting and stopping, for example as may be the case when the vehicle is travelling over rocky terrain), aerodynamic drag, yaw rate, and lateral vehicle acceleration.

The estimator module 18 also includes a second stage in which the following driving condition indicators are calculated: surface rolling resistance (based on the wheel inertia torque, the longitudinal force on the vehicle, aerodynamic drag, and the longitudinal force on the wheels), the steering force on the steering wheel 181 (based on the lateral acceleration and the output from the steering wheel sensor), the wheel longitudinal slip (based on the longitudinal force on the wheels, the wheel acceleration, SCS activity and a signal indicative of whether wheel slip has occurred), lateral friction (calculated from the measured lateral acceleration and the yaw versus the predicted lateral acceleration and yaw), and corrugation detection (high frequency, low amplitude wheel height excitement indicative of a washboard type surface). Longitudinal friction or ‘surface mu’ (that is, surface coefficient of friction in a longitudinal direction with respect to the vehicle) may also be calculated by the estimator module 18. In some alternative embodiments the value of surface mu may be received by the estimator module 18 and not calculated by the estimator module 18.

The SCS activity signal is derived from several outputs from an SCS ECU (not shown), which contains the DSC (Dynamic Stability Control) function, the TC (Traction Control) function, ABS and HDC algorithms, indicating DSC activity, TC activity, ABS activity, brake interventions on individual wheels, and engine torque reduction requests from the SCS ECU to the engine 121. All these indicate a slip event has occurred and the SCS ECU has taken action to control it. The estimator module 18 also uses the outputs from the wheel speed sensors to determine a wheel speed variation and corrugation detection signal.

On the basis of the windscreen wiper signal (ON/OFF), the estimator module 18 also calculates how long the windscreen wipers have been in an ON state (i.e. a rain duration signal).

The VCU 10 also includes a road roughness module 24 for calculating the terrain roughness based on the air suspension sensors (the ride height sensors) and the wheel accelerometers. A driving condition indicator signal in the form of a roughness output signal 26 is output from the road roughness module 24.

The estimates for the wheel longitudinal slip and the lateral friction estimation are compared with one another within the estimator module 18 as a plausibility check.

Calculations for wheel speed variation and corrugation output, the surface rolling resistance estimation, the wheel longitudinal slip and the corrugation detection, together with the friction plausibility check, are output from the estimator module 18 and provide driving condition indicator output signals 22, indicative of the nature of the terrain in which the vehicle is travelling, for further processing within the VCU 10.

The driving condition indicator signals 22 from the estimator module 18 are provided to the selector module 20 for determining which of a plurality of vehicle subsystem control modes (and therefore corresponding subsystem configuration modes) is most appropriate based on the indicators of the type of terrain in which the vehicle is travelling. The most appropriate control mode is determined by analysing the probability that each of the different control modes is appropriate on the basis of the driving condition indicator signals 22, 26 from the estimator module 18 and the road roughness module 24.

Once the VCU 10 has determined which of the control modes is most appropriate, the VCU 10 determines whether the control mode has a plurality of control sub-modes associated with it as discussed in more detail below. If the control mode does have a plurality of control sub-modes associated with it, the VCU 10 determines, based on the driving condition indicator signals 22, which of the sub-modes is most appropriate.

If an “automatic mode” or “automatic condition” of operation of the VCU 10 is selected, the vehicle subsystems 12 may be controlled automatically to operate in a given subsystem control mode, and in the most appropriate sub-mode of that control mode where a plurality of sub-modes are provided, in response to a control output signal 30 from the selector module 20 and without the need for driver input. In the present embodiment, if the VCU 10 is in the automatic mode of operation the vehicle subsystems 12 are caused automatically to assume the subsystem control mode corresponding to the control output signal 30 from the selector module 20. Where the control mode has a plurality of sub-modes, the output signal 30 indicates which of the plurality of sub-modes is most appropriate and the subsystems 12 are caused to operate in that sub-mode.

Alternatively, the vehicle subsystems 12 may be operated in a given subsystem control mode (and the most appropriate sub-mode of that control mode where a plurality of submodes are provided) according to a manual user input (in a “manual mode” or “manual condition” of operation of the VCU 10) via the HMI module 32. In the manual mode of operation the user determines in which subsystem control mode the subsystems will be operated by selection of a required system control mode (operating mode). The HMI module 32 comprises a display screen (not shown) and a user operable switchpack 170. The user may select between the manual and automatic modes (or conditions) of operation of the VCU 10 via the switchpack 170. When the VCU 10 is operating in the manual mode or condition, the switchpack 170 also allows the user to select the desired subsystem control mode. The VCU 10 then determines automatically, based on the control output signal 30, which of the control sub-modes of the user-selected control mode is most appropriate, and causes the subsystems 12 to be operated in that sub-mode.

It is to be understood that the subsystem controller 14 may itself control the vehicle subsystems 12a-12e directly via the signal line 13, or alternatively each subsystem may be provided with its own associated intermediate controller (not shown in Figure 1) for providing control of the relevant subsystem 12a-12e. In the latter case the subsystem controller 14 may only control the selection of the most appropriate subsystem control mode for the subsystems 12a-12e, rather than implementing the actual control steps for the subsystems. The or each intermediate controller may in practice form an integral part of the main subsystem controller 14.

When operating in the automatic mode, the selection of the most appropriate subsystem control mode may be achieved by means of a three phase process: (1) for each type of control mode, a calculation is performed of the probability that the control mode is suitable for the terrain over which the vehicle is travelling, based on the driving condition indicators; (2) the integration of “positive differences” between the probability for the current control mode and the other control modes; and (3) the program request to the control module 14 when the integration value exceeds a predetermined threshold or the current terrain control mode probability is zero.

The specific steps for phases (1), (2) and (3) will now be described in more detail.

In phase (1), the continuous driving condition indicator signals in the form of the road surface roughness output 26 and the outputs 22 from the estimator module 18 are provided to the selector module 20. The selector module 20 also receives the discrete driving condition indicators 17 directly from various sensors on the vehicle, including the transfer box (PTU 137) status signal (whether the gear ratio is set to a HI range or a LO range), the DSC status signal, cruise control status (whether the vehicle’s cruise control system 11 is ON or OFF), and trailer connect status (whether or not a trailer is connected to the vehicle). Driving condition indicator signals indicative of ambient temperature and atmospheric pressure are also provided to the selector module 20.

The selector module 20 is provided with a probability algorithm 20a for calculating the most suitable control mode for the vehicle subsystems 12a-e based on the discrete driving condition indicator signals 17 received directly from the sensors and the continuous driving condition indicators 22, 26 calculated by the estimator module 18 and the road surface roughness module 24, respectively. That is, the probability algorithm 20a calculates the most suitable system control mode, which determines the respective subsystem configuration mode in which each subsystem is to be operated, based on the discrete driving condition indicator signals 17 and the continuous driving condition indicators 22, 26.

The control modes typically include a grass/gravel/snow control mode (GGS mode) that is suitable for when the vehicle is travelling in grass, gravel or snow terrain, a mud/ruts control mode (MR mode) which is suitable for when the vehicle is travelling in mud and ruts terrain, a rock crawl/boulder mode (RC mode) which is suitable for when the vehicle is travelling in rock or boulder terrain, a sand mode which is suitable for when the vehicle is travelling in sand terrain (or deep soft snow) and a special programs OFF mode (SP OFF mode or SPO mode, also referred to as a Highway mode) which is a suitable compromise mode, or general mode, for all terrain conditions and especially vehicle travel on motorways and regular roadways. Many other control modes are also envisaged including those disclosed in US2003/0200016, the content of which is hereby incorporated by reference.

The different terrain types are grouped according to the friction of the terrain and the roughness of the terrain. For example, it is appropriate to group grass, gravel and snow together as terrains that provide a low friction, smooth surface and it is appropriate to group rock and boulder terrains together as high friction, very high roughness terrains. FIG. 3 is a table taken from US2003/0200016 showing the particular sub-system configuration modes that may be assumed by the subsystems 12 of a vehicle according to some embodiments of the invention in the respective different driving modes or operating modes in which the VCU 10 may operate in some embodiments. These operating modes may be considered to be sub-system control modes.

The driving modes are: (a) A motorway (or highway) mode; (b) A country road mode; (c) A city driving (urban) mode; (d) A towing (on-road) mode; (e) A dirt track mode; (f) A snow/ice (on-road) mode; (g) A GGS mode; (h) A sand mode; (i) A rock crawl or boulder crossing mode (RC); and (j) A mud/ruts (MR) mode

In the present embodiment, the vehicle 100 is limited to operating in the GGS mode, MR mode, RC mode, Sand mode and SPO (Highway) mode, however it will be appreciated that the invention is not limited to such an arrangement and any combination of on and off road control modes may be used within the scope of the present invention. In some embodiments, instead of a GGS mode the vehicle may have a ‘Grass/Snow’ (GS) mode in which vehicle handling is optimised for travel over grass or snow, and a separate ‘Gravel’ (G) mode in which vehicle handling is optimised for travel over gravel. In some embodiments the vehicle may have a ‘Wade’ mode in which vehicle handling is optimised for wading operations in which the vehicle travels through water.

With reference to FIG. 3, the configuration of the suspension system 12e is specified in terms of ride height (high, standard or low) and side/side air interconnection. The suspension system 12e is a fluid suspension system, in the present embodiment an air suspension system, allowing fluid interconnection between suspensions for wheels on opposite sides of the vehicle in the manner described in US2003/0200016. The plurality of subsystem configuration modes provide different levels of said interconnection, in the present case no interconnection (interconnection closed) and at least partial interconnection (interconnection open).

The configuration of the ePAS steering unit 12c may be adjusted to provide different levels of steering assistance, wherein steering wheel 181 is easier to turn the greater the amount of steering assistance. The amount of assistance may be proportional to vehicle speed in some driving modes. As shown in FIG. 3, the amount of assistance is ‘speed proportional’ in each mode shown except the Rock Crawl (RC) mode.

The brakes system 12d may be arranged to provide relatively high brake force for a given amount of pressure or ‘effort’ applied to the brake pedal 163 or a relatively low brake force, depending on the driving mode.

The brakes system 12d may also be arranged to allow different levels of wheel slip when an anti-lock braking system is active, (relatively low amounts on low friction (“low-mu” surfaces) and relatively large amounts on high friction surfaces).

An electronic traction control (ETC) system may be operated in a high mu or low mu configuration, the system tolerating greater wheel slip in the low mu configuration before intervening in vehicle control compared with the high mu configuration. A dynamic stability control system (DSC) may also be operated in a high mu or low mu configuration.

The engine management system 12a may be operated in ‘quick’ or ‘slow’ accelerator (or throttle) pedal progression configuration modes in which an increase in engine torque as a function of accelerator pedal progression is relatively quick or slow, respectively. The rate may be dependent on speed in one or more modes such as Sand mode.

The PTU 137 may be operated in a high range (HI) subsystem configuration mode or low range (LO) subsystem configuration mode as described herein.

In some embodiments, a centre differential and a rear differential each include a clutch pack and are controllable to vary the degree of locking between a "fully open" and a "fully locked" state. The actual degree of locking at any one time may be controlled on the basis of a number of factors in a known manner, but the control can be adjusted so that the differentials are "more open" or "more locked". Specifically the pre-load on the clutch pack can be varied which in turn controls the locking torque, i.e. the torque across the differential that will cause the clutch, and hence the differential, to slip. A front differential could also be controlled in the same or similar way.

For each driving mode (subsystem control mode), i.e. GGS, MR, RC, Sand or SPO in the present embodiment, the algorithm 20a within the selector module 20 performs a probability calculation, based on the driving condition indicators, to determine a probability that each of the different control modes is appropriate. The selector module 20 includes a tuneable data map which relates the continuous driving condition indicators 22, 26 (e.g. vehicle speed, road roughness, steering angle) to a probability that a particular control mode is appropriate. Each probability value typically takes a value of between 0 and 1. So, for example, the vehicle speed calculation may return a probability of 0.7 for the RC mode if the vehicle speed is relatively low, whereas if the vehicle speed is relatively high the probability for the RC mode will be much lower (e.g. 0.2). This is because it is much less likely that a high vehicle speed is indicative that the vehicle is travelling over a rock or boulder terrain.

In addition, for each subsystem control mode, each of the discrete driving condition indicators 17 (e.g. trailer connection status ON/OFF, cruise control status ON/OFF) is also used to calculate an associated probability for each of the control modes, GGS, RC, Sand, MR or SP OFF. So, for example, if cruise control is switched on by the driver of the vehicle, the probability that the SP OFF mode is appropriate is relatively high, whereas the probability that the MR control mode is appropriate will be lower.

For each of the different subsystem control modes, a combined probability value, Pb, is calculated based on the individual probabilities for that control mode, as described above, as derived from each of the continuous or discrete driving condition indicators 17, 22, 26. In the following equation, for each control mode the individual probability as determined for each driving condition indicator is represented by a, b, c, d...n. The combined probability value, Pb, for each control mode is then calculated according to the probability algorithm 20a as follows:

Pb = (a.b.c.d....n) / ((a.b.c.d...n) + (1-a). (1-b). (1-c). (1-d)....(1-n))

Any number of individual probabilities may be input to the probability algorithm 20a and any one probability value input to the probability algorithm may itself be the output of a combinational probability function.

Once the combined probability value for each control mode has been calculated, the subsystem control program corresponding to the control mode with the highest probability is selected within the selector module 20. The benefit of using a combined probability function based on multiple driving condition indicators is that certain indicators may make a control mode (e.g. GGS or MR) more or less likely when combined together, compared with basing the selection on just a single driving condition indicator alone.

The selector module 20 then determines whether the selected control mode corresponds to a control mode for which a plurality of control sub-modes exist. If a plurality of control submodes do exist, the selector module 20 determines which of the sub-modes is the most appropriate based on a similar methodology to that by which the selector module 20 determines which of the control modes is most appropriate. That is, for each of the different subsystem control sub-modes, a combined probability value, Pb_sub, is calculated based on the individual probabilities for that control submode, as derived from each of the continuous or discrete driving condition indicators 17, 22, 26. By analogy with the above equation in respect of Pb, in the following equation, for each control sub-mode the individual probability as determined for each driving condition indicator is represented by a_sub, b_sub, c_sub, d_sub...n sub. The combined probability value, Pb_sub, for each control sub-mode is then calculated as follows:

Pb_sub = (a_sub.b_sub.c_sub.d_sub ...,n_sub) / ((a_sub.b_sub.c_sub.d_sub ...n_sub) + (1-a_sub). (1-b_sub). (1-c_sub). (1-d_sub)....(1-n_sub))

As in the case of Pb, any number of individual probabilities may be input to the probability algorithm and any one probability value input to the probability algorithm may itself be the output of a combinational probability function.

Once the combined probability value for each control sub-mode has been calculated, the subsystem control program corresponding to the control mode with the highest probability is selected within the selector module 20 and output signal 30 provides an indication of the sub-mode of the selected control mode that has the highest probability.

In phase (2), an integration process is implemented continually within the selector module 20 to determine whether it is necessary to change from the current control mode to one of the alternative control modes. A similar integration process is also implemented to determine whether it is necessary to change from the current control sub-mode to one of the alternative control sub-modes. The integration process to determine whether it is necessary to change from the current control mode to one of the alternative control modes will now be described. The integration process to determine whether it is necessary to change from the current subcontrol mode to one of the alternative sub-control modes may be understood by analogy.

The first step of the integration process is to determine whether there is a positive difference between the combined probability value for each of the alternative control modes compared with the combined probability value for the current control mode.

By way of example, assume the current control mode is GGS with a combined probability value of 0.5. If a combined probability value for the sand control mode is 0.7, a positive difference is calculated between the two probabilities (i.e. a positive difference value of 0.2). The positive difference value is integrated with respect to time. If the difference remains positive and the integrated value reaches a predetermined change threshold (referred to as the change threshold), or one of a plurality of predetermined change thresholds, the selector module 20 determines that the current terrain control mode (GGS) is to be updated to a new, alternative control mode (in this example, the sand control mode). A control output signal 30 is then output from the selector module 20 to the subsystem control module 14 to initiate the sand control mode for the vehicle subsystems.

In phase (3), the probability difference is monitored and if, at any point during the integration process, the probability difference changes from a positive value to a negative value, the integration process is cancelled and reset to zero. Similarly, if the integrated value for one of the other alternative control modes (i.e. other than the currently selected control mode, in the present example the sand control mode) reaches the predetermined change threshold before the probability result for the sand control mode, the integration process for the sand control mode is cancelled and reset to zero and the other alternative control mode, with a higher probability difference, is selected. A further control signal 31 from the selector module 20 is provided to a control module 34. The outputs from the control module 34 to the subsystem control module 14 include a transfer box (PTU 137) setting signal 54 indicative of the setting (HI/LO) of the PTU 137, an air suspension setting signal 52 indicative of the air suspension configuration such as ride height, and a further signal 50. In the sub-system control module 14 a validation check or fault detection process 14a is carried out. The validation and fault detection process 14a operates so as to ensure that if one of the subsystems cannot support a selected control mode, for example because of a fault, appropriate action is taken (e.g. in the form of a warning).

As described above, the selector module 20 is configured to determine which of the plurality of control modes and control sub-modes is most appropriate for a given set of driving condition indicators. When the VCU 10 is operated in the automatic mode, the VCU 10 causes the vehicle subsystems 12 to be operated in the control mode and control sub-mode, where a plurality of sub-modes are provided, that is most appropriate to the current driving condition indicators. If the VCU 10 is operated in the manual mode, the VCU 10 causes the vehicle subsystems 12 to be operated in the control mode selected by the user. Where a plurality of sub-modes are provided for the selected control mode, the VCU 10 causes the vehicle subsystems 12 to be operated in the most appropriate control sub-mode for the selected control mode based on the current driving condition indicators. In the present embodiment, selection of the sub-mode in which the VCU 10 operates is transparent to the user and the user is not able to select a specific sub-mode of the selected control mode in which the VCU 10 is to operate. In some alternative embodiments the VCU 10 may permit a user to select a desired sub-mode. In some embodiments the VCU 10 permits a user to select a desired sub-mode via HMI module 32.

It will be understood that the embodiments described above are given by way of example only and are not intended to limit the invention, the scope of which is defined in the appended claims.

Throughout the description and claims of this specification, the words “comprise” and “contain” and variations of the words, for example “comprising” and “comprises”, means “including but not limited to”, and is not intended to (and does not) exclude other moieties, additives, components, integers or steps.

Throughout the description and claims of this specification, the singular encompasses the plural unless the context otherwise requires. In particular, where the indefinite article is used, the specification is to be understood as contemplating plurality as well as singularity, unless the context requires otherwise.

Features, integers, characteristics, compounds, chemical moieties or groups described in conjunction with a particular aspect, embodiment or example of the invention are to be understood to be applicable to any other aspect, embodiment or example described herein unless incompatible therewith.

The reader's attention is directed to all papers and documents which are filed concurrently with or previous to this specification in connection with this application and which are open to public inspection with this specification, and the contents of all such papers and documents are incorporated herein by reference.

Claims

CLAIMS:

1. A vehicle control system for at least one vehicle subsystem of a vehicle, the vehicle control system comprising: a subsystem controller for initiating control of the at least one vehicle subsystem in a selected one of a plurality of subsystem control modes, each of which corresponds to one or more different driving conditions for the vehicle, wherein for a given control mode at least one control parameter of the at least one vehicle subsystem is set by the controller to a predetermined state or value corresponding to that control mode; evaluation means configured to evaluate automatically at least one driving condition indicator and determine the most appropriate state or value of at least one control parameter of at least one said at least one vehicle subsystem, the subsystem controller being configured to adjust the state or value of said at least one control parameter of at least one said at least one vehicle subsystem in dependence on the most appropriate state or value determined by the evaluation means whilst the at least one vehicle subsystem is operated in the selected one of the plurality of subsystem control modes.

2. A control system according to claim 1 wherein at least one of the plurality of subsystem control modes comprises a plurality of respective different subsystem control sub-modes corresponding to the driving condition of the control mode for which they are sub-modes, wherein the evaluation means being configured to evaluate automatically at least one driving condition indicator to determine the most appropriate state or value of at least one control parameter of at least one said at least one vehicle subsystem comprises the evaluation means being configured to evaluate automatically at least one driving condition indicator to determine which of the subsystem control sub-modes of the selected control mode is most appropriate, wherein when a control mode comprising a plurality of sub-modes is selected, the control system provides an output indicative of the subsystem control sub-mode of that control mode that is most appropriate.

3. A control system according to claim 2 wherein when a control mode comprising a plurality of sub-modes is selected, the subsystem controller initiates automatically control of the or each of the vehicle subsystems in the subsystem control sub-mode of that control mode that is most appropriate.

4. A control system according to claim 2 or claim 3 configured to receive an input from a user input means indicative of the selected control mode.

5. A control system according to claim 4 wherein the input means comprises at least one selected from amongst a rotary switch selector device, a lever-type switch selector device, one or more button devices and one or more touchscreen devices.

6. A control system according to any preceding claim wherein the evaluation means is further configured automatically to evaluate at least one driving condition indicator to determine which of the subsystem control modes is most appropriate.

7. A control system according to claim 6 depending through claim 2 configured to cause the subsystem controller to initiate automatically control of the or each of the vehicle subsystems in the subsystem control mode that is most appropriate, wherein if the control mode that is determined to be most appropriate comprises a plurality of sub-modes, the controller initiates automatically control of the or each of the vehicle subsystems in the subsystem control sub-mode of that control mode that is most appropriate.

8. A control system according to any preceding claim wherein the control modes comprise at least one control mode adapted for driving on a driving surface of relatively low surface coefficient of friction.

9. A control system according to claim 8 wherein the control modes comprise at least one driving mode adapted for driving on at least one of a snowy surface, an icy surface, grass, gravel, snow, mud and sand.

10. A control system according to any preceding claim wherein the subsystems include at least one of a powertrain subsystem, a brakes subsystem, a power assisted steering (PAS) subsystem and a suspension subsystem.

11. A control system according to any preceding claim comprising an electronic processor having an electrical input for receiving a signal indicative of at least one said at least one driving condition indicator, and an electronic memory device electrically coupled to the electronic processor and having instructions stored therein, wherein the processor is configured to access the memory device and execute the instructions stored therein such that it is operable to evaluate automatically at least one driving condition indicator to determine the most appropriate state or value of at least one control parameter of at least one said at least one vehicle subsystem, the method comprising adjusting the state or value of said at least one control parameter of at least one said at least one vehicle subsystem in dependence on the most appropriate state or value determined by the evaluation means.

12. A control system according to claim 11 as depending through claim 4 wherein the electronic processor has an electrical input for receiving a signal from the input means for permitting a user to provide an input to the control system indicative of the selected control mode.

13. A vehicle comprising a control system according to any preceding claim.

14. A method of controlling a plurality of subsystems of a vehicle by means of a control system, the method comprising: initiating control of the at least one vehicle subsystem in a selected one of a plurality of subsystem control modes, each of which corresponds to one or more different driving conditions for the vehicle, whereby for a given control mode at least one control parameter of the at least one vehicle subsystem is set to a predetermined state or value corresponding to that control mode; evaluating automatically at least one driving condition indicator to determine the most appropriate state or value of at least one control parameter of at least one said at least one vehicle subsystem; and adjusting the value or state of said at least one control parameter of at least one said at least one vehicle subsystem in dependence on the most appropriate state or value determined by the evaluation means.

15. A method according to claim 14 comprising setting the value or state of said at least one control parameter of at least one said at least one vehicle subsystem to the most appropriate state or value determined by the evaluation means.

16. A method according to claim 14 whereby at least one of the plurality of subsystem control modes comprises a plurality of respective different subsystem control sub-modes corresponding to the driving condition of the control mode for which they are sub-modes, whereby evaluating automatically at least one driving condition indicator to determine the most appropriate state or value of at least one control parameter of at least one said at least one vehicle subsystem comprises evaluating automatically at least one driving condition indicator to determine which of the subsystem control sub-modes of the selected control mode is most appropriate, whereby when a control mode comprising a plurality of sub-modes is selected, the method comprises providing an output indicative of the subsystem control sub-mode of that control mode that is most appropriate.

17. A method according to claim 16 whereby, when a control mode comprising a plurality of sub-modes is selected, the method comprises initiating automatically control of the or each of the vehicle subsystems in the subsystem control sub-mode of that control mode that is most appropriate.

18. A method according to claim 16 or 17 comprising receiving an input from user input means indicative of the selected control mode.

19. A method according to any one of claims 16 or 17 comprising evaluating automatically the least one driving condition indicator to determine which of the subsystem control modes is most appropriate.

20. A method according to claim 19 comprising initiating automatically control of the or each of the vehicle subsystems in the subsystem control mode that is most appropriate, whereby if the control mode that is determined to be most appropriate comprises a plurality of sub-modes, the method comprises initiating automatically control of the or each of the vehicle subsystems in the subsystem control sub-mode of that control mode that is most appropriate.

21. A non-transitory computer readable carrier medium carrying a computer readable code for controlling a vehicle to carry out the method according to any one of claims 14 to 20.

22. A computer program product executable on a processor so as to implement the method of any one of claims 14 to 20.

23. A computer readable medium loaded with the computer program product of claim 22.

24. A processor arranged to implement the method of any one of claims 13 to 17, or the computer program product of claim 22.

25. A control system, vehicle, method, non-transitory computer readable carrier medium, computer program product, computer readable medium or processor substantially as hereinbefore described with reference to the accompanying drawings.