• 专利附录
  • 专利说明
  • 权利要求
  • 类似技术
  • 同族专利
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  • 法律状态
  • 优先权
    • 专利摘要:
    The present invention relates to a method for evaluating driving of a vehicle taking level of the vehicle into consideration. Different zones (ZA, ZB, ZC) for recommended level ranges relative to a normal level for the vehicle based on characteristics comprising road type (A, B, C) and vehicle speed are defined. The method comprises the step of determining the level of the vehicle relative to a normal level for the vehicle. The method further comprises the steps of: determining the current speed of the vehicle; and determining the type of road (A, B, C) on which the vehicle is travelling. The method comprises the step of determining whether the current level of the vehicle is within a range corresponding to a recommended zone based on the thus determined speed and road type.The present invention also relates to a system for evaluating driving of a vehicle taking level of the vehicle into consideration. The present invention also relates to a vehicle. The present invention also relates to a computer program and a computer program product.(Fig. 2)
    公开号:SE1550811A1
    申请号:SE1550811
    申请日:2015-06-15
    公开日:2016-12-16
    发明作者:Hesse Johan
    申请人:Scania Cv Ab；
    IPC主号:
    专利说明:

    METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR EVALUATING DRIVING OF A VEHICLETAKING LEVEL OF THE VEHICLE INTO CONSIDERATION ACCORDINGTO AN EMBODIMENT OF THE PRESENT INVENTION TECHNICAL FIELD The invention relates to a method for evaluating driving of a vehicle takinglevel of the vehicle into consideration according to an embodiment of thepresent invention according to the preamble of claim 1. The invention alsorelates to a system for evaluating driving of a vehicle taking level of thevehicle into consideration according to an embodiment of the presentinvention. The invention in addition relates to a computer program and a computer program product.
    BACKGROUND ART For vehicles such as trucks and buses level of the vehicle may be variedwithin a range for different reasons. The suspension system of such vehiclescomprises many components that are sensible to driving conditions includingthe level of the vehicle. By driving the vehicle with a level that is not suitablefor particular driving conditions and speed may damage such componentsand other components of the vehicle.
    US5083275 discloses control of the level of the vehicle between targetheights/levels depending on the vehicle driving condition such as vehiclespeed and road surface.
    There is however a need to further improve driving of a vehicle taking level ofthe vehicle into consideration.
    OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION An object of the present invention is to provide a method for evaluatingdriving of a vehicle taking level of the vehicle into consideration according toan embodiment of the present invention which facilitates improving driving behaviour with regard to the level of the vehicle.
    Another object of the present invention is to provide a system for evaluatingdriving of a vehicle taking level of the vehicle into consideration according toan embodiment of the present invention which facilitates improving driving behaviour with regard to the level of the vehicle.
    SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION These and other objects, apparent from the following description, areachieved by a method, a system, a vehicle, a computer program and acomputer program product, as set out in the appended independent claims.Preferred embodiments of the method and the system are defined inappended dependent claims.
    Specifically an object of the invention is achieved by a method for evaluatingdriving of a vehicle taking level of the vehicle into consideration. Differentzones for recommended level ranges relative to a normal level for the vehiclebased on characteristics comprising road type and vehicle speed are defined.The method comprises the step of determining the level of the vehiclerelative to a normal level for the vehicle. The method further comprises thesteps of: determining the current speed of the vehicle; and determining thetype of road on which the vehicle is travelling. The method comprises thestep of determining whether the current level of the vehicle is within a rangecorresponding to a recommended zone based on the thus determined speedand road type. Hereby driving behaviour with regard to the level of thevehicle may be improved in that the it will be easy for the operator of the vehicle to understand the allowable level by thus defining zones and in thatinformation of whether the current level of the vehicle is within a rangecorresponding to a recommended zone can be presented to the driver orstored for later assessment of the driving. Hereby the life expectancy ofvehicle components affected by driving the vehicle with a level outside such azone will be prolonged in that a more correct driving behaviour with regard tolevel of the vehicle, i.e. within a recommended zone, is facilitated. Thus,more sustainable driving is facilitated.
    According to an embodiment of the method the characteristics for definingsaid different zones for recommended level ranges relative to said normallevel for the vehicle further comprises at least one of the following: vehicleweight, aerodynamic properties, comfort, safety, handling, vehicleconfiguration, sustainability and wear of vehicle components. Hereby moreaccurate zones may be defined thus facilitating recommending a moreaccurate driving with regard to level of the vehicle such that the risk of damaging vehicle components affected by wrong level is reduced.
    According to an embodiment the method comprises the step of evaluatingthe level of the vehicle during drive so as to determine if and to what extentthe level of the vehicle has been outside a recommended zone. Hereby thedriver and/or other users such as hauler, owner and/or other affectedpersons with interest of the vehicle will be informed of the extent to whichdriving with a recommended level was accomplished. lf the driving behaviourwith regard to level of the vehicle is not improved despite the evaluationrestrictions with regard to regulation of the level of the vehicle may beactivated. By thus evaluating the level a better understanding of the behaviour of vehicles and certain vehicle types is obtained.
    According to an embodiment the method comprises the step of taking actionso as to facilitate obtaining recommended level ranges if the level of the vehicle has been outside a recommended zone exceeding a determined extent. Hereby the behaviour with regard to level of the vehicle will be further improved.
    According to an embodiment of the method the step of taking actioncomprises presenting for the operator of the vehicle that the current level ofthe vehicle is outside the recommended zone. Hereby the operator of thevehicle will be informed and may take action to change the level to a levelwithin the recommended zone and/or change the speed of the vehicle so asto enter into a recommended zone. This thus further facilitates improving thedriving behaviour with regard to level of the vehicle and thus reduces risk of damaging components of the vehicle sensitive to driving with the wrong level.
    According to an embodiment of the method the step of taking actioncomprises presenting for the operator of the vehicle a recommended levelrange. Hereby the operator of the vehicle will be informed of the correct leveland may take action to change the level to a level within the recommendedzone. This thus further facilitates improving the driving behaviour with regardto level of the vehicle and thus reduces risk of damaging components of thevehicle sensitive to driving with the wrong level.
    According to an embodiment of the method the step of taking action comprises changing the level of the vehicle to a level within therecommended zone, and/or adapting the vehicle speed so as to enter into arecommended zone. Hereby the driving with regard to level of the vehicle willbe changed to a correct level and thus the risk of damaging components of the vehicle sensitive to driving with the wrong level is reduced.
    According to an embodiment of the method said action of presenting for theoperator of the vehicle a recommended level range is used for a lower extentthan the extent corresponding to said action of changing the level of thevehicle to a level within the recommended zone, and/or adapting the vehiclespeed so as to enter into a recommended zone. Hereby unnecessary controlof the vehicle is avoided. Thus, automatic level change is only activated when it is really necessary, thus avoiding annoying the operator of thevehicle.
    According to an embodiment the method comprises the step of storing, onboard the vehicle and/or externally, the result of said evaluation of drivecomprising the extent of driving outside a recommended zone. Herebyinformation of the performance of the operator of the vehicle will be storedand could be accessible to the driver and/or other users such as hauler,owner and/or other affected persons with interest of the vehicle. Thus herebyhistory of the extent to which driving with a recommended level wasaccomplished may be stored and made accessible to persons with interest ofthe vehicle. By thus storing the history of the driving behaviour a betterunderstanding of the behaviour of vehicles and certain vehicle types may beobtained.
    Specifically an object of the invention is achieved by a system for evaluatingdriving of a vehicle taking level of the vehicle into consideration. The systemcomprises means for determining the level of the vehicle relative to a normallevel for the vehicle. Different zones for recommended level ranges relative toa normal level for the vehicle based on characteristics comprising road typeand vehicle speed are arranged to be defined. The system comprises meansfor determining the current speed of the vehicle; means for determining thetype of road on which the vehicle is travelling; and, means for determiningwhether the current level of the vehicle is within a range corresponding to arecommended zone based on the thus determined speed and road type.
    According to an embodiment of the system the characteristics for definingsaid different zones for recommended level ranges relative to said normallevel for the vehicle further comprises at least one of the following: vehicle weight, aerodynamic properties, comfort, safety, handling, vehicle configuration, sustainability and wear of vehicle components.
    According to an embodiment the system comprises means for evaluating thelevel of the vehicle during drive so as to determine if and to what extent thelevel of the vehicle has been outside a recommended zone.
    According to an embodiment the system comprises means for taking actionso as to facilitate obtaining recommended level ranges if the level of thevehicle has been outside a recommended zone exceeding a determined extent.
    According to an embodiment of the system the means for taking actioncomprises means for presenting for the operator of the vehicle that the current level of the vehicle is outside the recommended zone.
    According to an embodiment of the system the means for taking actioncomprises means for presenting for the operator of the vehicle a recommended level range.
    According to an embodiment of the system the means for taking actioncomprises means for changing the level of the vehicle to a level within therecommended zone, and/or means for adapting the vehicle speed so as to enter into a recommended zone.
    According to an embodiment of the system the means for presenting for theoperator of the vehicle a recommended level range is arranged to be used fora lower extent than the extent corresponding to said means for changing thelevel of the vehicle to a level within the recommended zone, and/or themeans for adapting the vehicle speed so as to enter into a recommended ZOne.
    According to an embodiment the system comprises means for storing theresult of said evaluation of drive comprising the extent of driving outside arecommended zone on board the vehicle and/or means for storing the resultof said evaluation of drive comprising the extent of driving outside a recommended zone externally.
    The system for evaluating driving of a vehicle taking level of the vehicle intoconsideration is adapted to perform the methods as set out herein.
    The system according to the invention has the advantages according to thecorresponding method.
    BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS For a better understanding of the present invention reference is made to thefollowing detailed description when read in conjunction with theaccompanying drawings, wherein like reference characters refer to like parts throughout the several views, and in which: Fig. 1 schematically illustrates a side view of a vehicle according to the present invention; Fig. 2 schematically illustrates different zones for recommended level ranges relative to a normal level for a vehicle based on road type and vehicle speed; Fig. 3 schematically illustrates a system for evaluating driving of a vehicletaking level of the vehicle into consideration according to an embodiment of the present invention; Fig. 4 schematically illustrates a block diagram of a method for evaluatingdriving of a vehicle taking level of the vehicle into consideration according toan embodiment of the present invention; and Fig. 5 schematically illustrates a computer according to an embodiment of the present invention.
    DETAILED DESCRIPTION Hereinafter the term “link” refers to a communication link which may be aphysical connector, such as an optoelectronic communication wire, or a non-physical connector such as a wireless connection, for example a radio or microwave link.
    Hereinafter the term “level of the vehicle” refers to a certain level of thevehicle body of the vehicle relative to the ground. This corresponds to acertain level of the vehicle body/chassis of the vehicle body relative to theaxles of the vehicle. The level of the vehicle is changeable. Changing level ofthe changing level of the entire vehicle by changing the level of the vehiclebody relative to the ground and thus relative to the vehicle axles. Changinglevel of the vehicle may also comprise different level of the front side and therear side of the vehicle, changing level of one side of the vehicle, changinglevel of only a front side of the vehicle, changing level of only a rear side ofthe vehicle. Changing level of the vehicle may also be referred to askneeling.
    Hereinafter the term “road type” refers to a specific road type. The specificroad type is according to an embodiment divided into the roughness of thespecific road, e.g. very smooth (e.g. freeway, expressway); Smooth (e.g.highway, normal road), rough (country road); very rough (gravelled road) andextremely rough (off-road, i.e. very limited road or no road at all).
    Thus, the specific road type may comprise any suitable specific road type.The specific road type comprises according to an embodiment any of:FREEWAY - i.e. a road which is very smooth with limited curvature and aground facilitating safe driving at relatively higher speeds and low variation inspeed limits; EXPRESSWAY - i.e. a road which is very smooth with limitedcurvature and a ground facilitating safe driving at relatively higher speedsand low variation in speed limits; HIGHWAY/ROAD - i.e. a road which is smooth with more curves and more variation in speed compared to “freeway” and “express way”; COUNTRY ROAD - i.e. a road which is rough with morecurves and more variation in speed compared “road” the ground notnecessary facilitating as safe driving as for “freeway” and “express way”.Here the ground may be uneven/bumpy, and speed limits are normally lowerthan for “freeway” and “express way”; GRAVELLED ROAD - i.e. a road whichis very rough which may have more curves compared to “road/highway” andalso compared to “country road”; and OFF-ROAD i.e. a route which isextremely rough, i.e. very limited road or no road at all. The ground which isof gravel or the like or off-road does not facilitate safe driving. Here the ground is usually uneven/bumpy, and speed limits are usually low.
    According to an embodiment the road types “freeway” and “express way”represent a high quality road type, i.e. a road which is very smooth, in fig. 2below denoted road type A, the road types “road/highway” represents amedium quality road type which is smooth, below denoted road type B, androad type “country road” represents a bad quality road type which is rough,below denoted road type C. The road type “gravelled road” which is veryrough could be denoted road type D, not illustrated in fig. 2, and the roadtype “off-road” could be denoted road type E, also not illustrated in fig. 2. Theroad types could of course be defined differently. There could also be furtherroad types. Other properties such as curvature, topography, temperature,weather such as snow, ice, rain and speed limits which could affect the driving properties of the road could be taken into account in defining the road type. _ The term “road type” could in addition to the above reference also comprisedetermined actual quality of the road so as to determine if the road is of highquality, i.e. road type A, medium quality, i.e. road type B, or bad quality, i.e.road type C.
    Hereinafter the term “vehicle configuration” comprises vehicle type such astype of truck/ type of bus, vehicle dimensions such as height and width, axle configuration comprising number of vehicle axles and distance between theaxles, ground clearance for the vehicle at normal level.
    Hereinafter the term “normal level for the vehicle” refers to a level for thevehicle relative to the ground or to other reference that corresponds to thelevel for the particular vehicle that is set as a normal level or default level.The normal level for the vehicle is according to an embodiment a calibratedlevel. The normal level for the vehicle refers according to an embodiment tothe level that for normal driving results in sustainable driving prolonging lifeexpectancy for vehicle components.
    Fig. 1 schematically illustrates a vehicle 1 in the form of a truck. The vehicle 1has a vehicle body 1a. The vehicle according to this example has a front axleX1 with front wheels and a rear axle X2 with rear wheels, the rear axleaccording to an embodiment being the drive axle. The level L of the vehicle ischangeable by changing the level of L of the vehicle body relative to the roadR on which the vehicle is travelling. The vehicle has a level changingfunctionality for changing the level of the vehicle.
    The vehicle 1 could be any suitable vehicle having a level changing functionality.
    The vehicle 1 comprises a system for evaluating driving of a vehicle takinglevel of the vehicle into consideration. The vehicle 1 comprises means forproviding the level changing functionality and hence for changing the level Lof the vehicle by changing level of only a front side of the vehicle, changinglevel of only a rear side of the vehicle, and/or changing level of the entirevehicle. The level changing functionality comprises adapting the level L of thevehicle entrance and/or exit relative to the ground of the road R.
    The vehicle 1 comprises according to an embodiment an air suspensionsystem comprising air suspension members for providing suspension and for providing a level changing functionality, i.e. changing level of the vehicle. The 11 air suspension members are according to an embodiment comprised in a means for providing a level changing functionality.
    The suspensions members comprise according to an embodiment bellowsunits, a bellows unit being arranged in connection to the respective wheel of the respective axle X1, X2 of the vehicle.
    The respective bellows units are situated between the vehicle frame and therespective axles X1, X2, making it possible for the vehicle body 1a of thevehicle 1 to be raised and lowered by regulation of air in bellows units.
    The air suspension system further comprises an air valve configurationaccording to an embodiment of the present invention. The air valveconfiguration is connected to the bellows units and is adapted to regulatingthe air pressure in the respective bellows units for providing a level change ofthe vehicle and hence a level changing functionality.
    The level changing functionality of the vehicle may be provided in anysuitable way by any suitable means, such as hydropneumatically,electromagnetically, electrically or the like. The suspension system may thusbe any suitable suspension system such as a hydropneumatic suspensionsystem, an electromagnetic suspension system, an electrical suspensionsystem or the like.
    The vehicle 1 described above in relation to fig. 1 has a front axle X1 and apowered rear axle X2 just as a schematic example. The vehicle according tothe present invention could have any suitable number of axles. Thus, theinvention regarding evaluating driving of a vehicle taking level of the vehicleinto consideration is applicable on any suitable vehicle, such a vehicle havingfor example a front axle, a rear axle and a tag axle, or tvvo-wheel or four-wheel drive; two front axles, a powered axle and a tag axle; or vehicles withfurther axles, e.g. ten or twelve, one or more of them being powered. 12 Fig. 2 schematically illustrates different zones for recommended level rangesrelative to a normal level for a vehicle based on road type and vehicle speed.
    The zones for recommended level ranges relative to a normal levelcorrespond according to an embodiment to a specific vehicle/specific vehicle type and/or a specific vehicle dimensions, aerodynamics, etc. ln the example illustrated in fig. 2 three zones are shown, a zone for a roadtype A which represents a very smooth road, e.g. a freeway or an expressway, a zone for a road type B which represents a smooth road such as ahighway/normal road, and a zone for a road type C which represents a rough road, e.g. a country road.
    The level ranges available for the vehicle are a range 1 varying from + 20mm to - 20 mm, a range 2 varying from + 20 mm to + 60 mm, a range 3varying between + 60 mm and + 100 mm, a range 4 varying from - 20 mm to- 60 mm and range 5 varying between - 60 mm and - 100 mm. There is anormal level range for the vehicle which is 0 mm. The level ranges 1, 2, 3, 4,5 thus refers to the normal level range. The ranges are here symmetricallyillustrated but they do not need to be symmetrical but could differ.
    For the road type A the vehicle may at low speeds up to about 40 km/h bewithin the range 3, up to +/- 80 mm, within range 2 for speeds between about40 and 115 km/h, and within range 1 for speeds between about 115 and 130km/h.
    For the road type B the vehicle may up to about 70 km/h be within the range2, and within range 1 for speeds between about 70 and 100 km/h.
    For the road type C the vehicle may only be in range one and only up toabout 70 km/h.
    The road type together with the speed of the vehicle defines a zone withrecommended level of the vehicle. Road type A defines a zone ZA, road typeB defines a zone ZB and road type C defines a zone ZC. 13 The lower the speed the higher level is allowed within the respective zone. ln order to evaluate driving of a vehicle taking level of the vehicle intoconsideration the level and speed of the vehicle are determined. lt is thendetermined whether the current level of the vehicle is within a rangecorresponding to a recommended zone based on the thus determined speedand road type. Hereby it is determined whether the vehicle is driven in withina recommended zone or an adverse zone. lf the vehicle is being driven in anadverse zone it may be considered as bad driving behaviour and measuresmay be taken so as to facilitate obtaining recommended level ranges. Suchmeasures may be presenting for the operator of the vehicle that the currentlevel of the vehicle is outside the recommended zone and also to present therecommended level range. A presentation for the operator of the vehicle thatthe current level of the vehicle is outside the recommended zone may be awarning. Such measures may also be to automatically changing the level ofthe vehicle to a level within the recommended zone, and/or adapting the vehicle speed so as to enter into a recommended zone.
    The result of the evaluation of driving may be stored internally, i.e. on boardthe vehicle, and/or externally so as to facilitate having access to the history ofdriving comprising driving behaviour with regard to the level and the extent of driving outside a recommended zone.
    Driving behaviour with regard to the level of the vehicle may hereby beimproved. Hereby the life expectancy of vehicle components affected bydriving the vehicle with a level outside such a zone will be prolonged in that amore correct driving behaviour with regard to level of the vehicle, i.e. within arecommended zone, is facilitated. Thus, more sustainable driving isfacilitated.
    According to an embodiment, not shown in fig. 2, the characteristics fordefining the different zones for recommended level ranges relative to thenormal level for the vehicle, in addition to vehicle speed and road type, 14 further comprises at least one of the following: vehicle weight, aerodynamic properties, vehicle configuration, sustainability and wear of vehiclecomponents. Aerodynamic properties comprises comprise the shape of thevehicle including the shape of the undercarriage of the vehicle, wheregenerally lowering of the level of the vehicle results in reduced air resistance.The term “handling” here refers to handling of the vehicle by the operator of the vehicle comprising manoeuvres such as evasive actions.
    Fig. 3 schematically illustrates a system for evaluating driving of a vehicletaking level of the vehicle into consideration according to an embodiment of the present invention.
    Different zones for recommended level ranges relative to a normal level forthe vehicle based on characteristics comprising road type and vehicle speedare defined. The zones may be defined in accordance with the exemplaryembodiment in fig. 2.
    According to an embodiment the characteristics for defining the differentzones for recommended level ranges relative to the normal level for thevehicle further comprises at least one of the following: vehicle weight,aerodynamic properties, comfort, safety, handling, vehicle configuration,sustainability and wear of vehicle components.
    The system I comprises an electronic control unit 100.
    The system I comprises means 110 for determining the level of the vehiclerelative to a normal level for the vehicle. The means 110 for determining thelevel of the vehicle relative to a normal level for the vehicle comprises at least one level sensor unit 112.
    According to an embodiment the vehicle for which the system I is usedcomprises an air suspension system having bellows units in connection tothe respective wheels of the vehicle. The bellows units are connected to anair valve configuration configured to regulate the pressure in the respective bellows unit for providing the kneeling function. The means 110 fordetermining the level of the vehicle relative to a normal level for the vehiclecomprises means 114 for determining the pressure and pressure change inthe respective bellows unit of the air suspension system so as to determinelevel and level change of the vehicle. The means 114 for determiningpressure and a possible pressure change comprises at least one pressure sensor unit for the respective bellows unit.
    The means 110 for determining level of the vehicle relative to a normal levelfor the vehicle may also comprise determining status of valves configured toregulate the bellows units for providing the kneeling function for kneeling thevehicle.
    The system I comprises means 120 for determining the current speed of thevehicle. The means 120 for determining the current speed of the vehicle maycomprise any suitable means for detecting the vehicle speed. The means fordetermining the current speed of the vehicle comprises the speedometer ofthe vehicle.
    The system I comprises means 130 for determining the type of road on which the vehicle is travelling.
    The means 130 for determining the type of road on which the vehicle istravelling comprises road detection means 132 for detecting the road type.The road detection means 132 may comprise any suitable means fordetecting the road type. The road detection means 132 comprises accordingto an embodiment one or more camera units for detecting roadcharacteristics, road signs or the like so as to determine the road type. Theroad detection means 132 may comprise a detector unit configured to detect the nature/character/quality of the road.
    The means 130 for determining the type of road on which the vehicle istravelling comprises road navigation means 134. The road navigation means134 comprises a map information unit 134a comprising map data comprising 16 information of road along the route of the vehicle comprising information ofspecific road types such as freeway, express way, normal road, country road,gravelled road etc. The road navigation means 134 comprises according toan embodiment means 134b for determining the position of the vehicle. Themeans 134b for determining the position of the vehicle comprises accordingto an embodiment a global positioning system, GPS, for continuouslydetermining the current position of the vehicle so as to facilitate determiningthe specific road type on which the vehicle is travelling.
    The system I comprises means 140 for determining whether the current levelof the vehicle is within a range corresponding to a recommended zone basedon the thus determined speed and road type. The road navigation means 134is according to an embodiment configured to provide information such asinformation regarding height of bridges, tunnels, roofs of gas stations, garage, road constructions, or the like.
    The means 140 for determining whether the current level of the vehicle iswithin a range corresponding to a recommended zone comprises means 142for determining the current recommended zone. The means 142 fordetermining the current recommended zone is arranged to process datarepresenting current vehicle speed and data representing current road typeso as to determine the current recommended zone. The means 140 fordetermining whether the current level of the vehicle is within a rangecorresponding to a recommended zone comprises means 144 for comparingthe current level of the vehicle with the current recommended zone so as todetermine whether the current level of the vehicle is within a rangecorresponding to the thus determined recommended zone.
    The means 140 for determining whether the current level of the vehicle iswithin a range corresponding to a recommended zone is according to an embodiment comprised in the electronic control unit 100. 17 The system I comprises means 150 for evaluating the level of the vehicleduring drive so as to determine if and to what extent the level of the vehicle has been outside a recommended zone.
    The means 150 for evaluating the level of the vehicle during drive so as todetermine if and to what extent the level of the vehicle has been outside arecommended zone comprises means 152 for determining the number oftimes the vehicle has been outside a recommended zone within in a certain period of time.
    The means 150 for evaluating the level of the vehicle during drive so as todetermine if and to what extent the level of the vehicle has been outside arecommended zone comprises means 154 for determining, for each time thevehicle was outside a recommended zone, for how long time the vehicle was outside the recommended zone.
    The means 150 for evaluating the level of the vehicle during drive so as todetermine if and to what extent the level of the vehicle has been outside arecommended zone comprises means 150a for determining whether theextent the level of the vehicle has been outside a recommended zoneexceeds a predetermined value. Said extent comprises the number of timesthe level of the vehicle has been outside the recommended zone and for howlong time the level of the vehicle was outside the recommended zone foreach time it happened.
    The system I comprises means 160 for taking action so as to facilitateobtaining recommended level ranges if the level of the vehicle has been outside a recommended zone exceeding a determined extent.
    The means 160 for taking action comprises means 162 for presenting for theoperator of the vehicle that the current level of the vehicle is outside therecommended zone. The means 162 for presenting for the operator of thevehicle that the current level of the vehicle is outside the recommended zonecomprises visual means 162a for visual presentation. The means 162 for 18 presenting for the operator of the vehicle that the current level of the vehicleis outside the recommended zone comprises sound means 162b for audible presentation such as an alarm, a voice message or the like.
    The means 160 for taking action comprises means 164 for presenting for theoperator of the vehicle a recommended level range. The means 164 forpresenting for the operator of the vehicle a recommended level rangecomprises visual means 164a for visual presentation. The means 164 forpresenting for the operator of the vehicle a recommended level rangecomprises sound means 164b for audible presentation such as an alarm, a voice message or the like.
    The means 160 for taking action comprises according to an embodimentmeans 166 for changing the level of the vehicle to a level within therecommended zone. The means 166 for changing the level of the vehicle to alevel within the recommended zone comprises any suitable means forchanging the level of the vehicle. Where the vehicle is equipped with an airsuspension system having bellows units the means 166 for changing thelevel of the vehicle to a level within the recommended zone comprises meansfor regulating the pressure in the bellows units so as to change the level ofthe vehicle. The means for regulating the pressure in the bellows unitscomprises valve members configured to regulate pressurised air distributedfrom an air pressure system of the vehicle. The means 166 for changing thelevel of the vehicle to a level within the recommended zone is according to anembodiment performed automatically.
    The means 160 for taking action comprises according to an embodimentmeans 168 for adapting the vehicle speed so as to enter into arecommended zone. The means 168 for adapting the vehicle speed so as toenter into a recommended zone according to an embodiment comprises or iscomprised in the cruise control unit of the vehicle. The means 168 foradapting the vehicle speed so as to enter into a recommended zone is according to an embodiment performed automatically. 19 The means 160 for taking action according to the means 162, the means164, means 166 and means 168 may according to an embodiment be set bythe operator if and to what extent they are configured to be activated.
    The means 160 is according to an embodiment configured to, by means ofinformation from the road navigation means 134 when a predetermined routeis set, the most suitable Iimitation for suggest driving in the recommended/suitable zone.
    The means for presenting for the operator of the vehicle a recommendedlevel range is arranged to be used for a lower extent than the extentcorresponding to said means for changing the level of the vehicle to a levelwithin the recommended zone, and/or adapting the vehicle speed so as toenter into a recommended zone. Hereby unnecessary control of the vehicleis avoided. Thus, automatic control of the level is only activated when it is really necessary, thus avoiding annoying the operator of the vehicle.
    According to an embodiment the means for presenting for the operator of thevehicle a recommended level range is arranged to be used if the extent thelevel of the vehicle has been outside a recommended zone does not exceeda predetermined value, which according to an embodiment is determined bythe means 150a as described above.
    According to an embodiment the means for changing the level of the vehicleto a level within the recommended zone, and/or adapting the vehicle speedso as to enter into a recommended zone is arranged to be used if the extentthe level of the vehicle has been outside a recommended zone exceeds thepredetermined value, which according to an embodiment is determined bythe means 150a as described above.
    According to an embodiment if the extent the level of the vehicle has beenoutside a recommended zone increases the action taken will be escalatedfrom a warning, e.g. by presenting to the operator of the vehicle according tothe means 162 and/or means 164 to a specific action, e.g. by changing level and/or speed according to the means 166 and/or means 168. Further actionsas a result of escalation may be controlling, i.e. Iowering, the acceleration,changing the damping of the vehicle, changing gear of the vehicle or the like.Further actions could be to keeping the vehicle within the correct zonestrategy by predicting the route by means of map data and positioning meanssuch as a global positioning system, GPS, e.g. by thus determining that aroundabout is approaching and thereby only prioritising a reduction of vehiclespeed as the road on which the vehicle is travelling is very smooth after theroundabout, or only prioritising level change/lowering of level as the speed then may be maintained.
    The system I comprises means 170 for storing the result of said evaluation ofdrive comprising the extent of driving outside a recommended zone on board the vehicle.
    The storage means 170 on board the vehicle may be any suitable internalstorage means for storing the result of said evaluation of drive comprising theextent of driving outside a recommended zone such as an electronic controlunit of another system of the vehicle. The internal storage means 170 onboard the vehicle is according to an embodiment comprised in the electroniccontrol unit 100.
    The system I comprises means 180 for storing the result of said evaluation ofdrive comprising the extent of driving outside a recommended zone externally.
    The external storage means 180 may be any suitable storage means forstoring the result of said evaluation of drive comprising the extent of drivingoutside a recommended zone such as a global data base, an external serverunit or the like. Such external storage means 180 may be accessible forrelevant users, e.g. owner of the passenger transport vehicle. The externalstorage means 180 may be a portable unit such as a smart phone, a portablecomputer, a tablet, or other portable storage means. 21 The storing of the result of said evaluation of drive comprising the extent ofdriving outside a recommended zone in the internal storage means 170and/or external storage means 180 comprises according to an embodimentstoring count of number of times with a counter and/or the time for the drivingoutside a recommended zone by means of a specific time stamp for eachtime it occurred. According to an embodiment a diagnostic trouble code(DTC) is configured to be set. Further, variables such as vehicle speed,weight, position and level may be stored.
    According to an embodiment the characteristics for defining the differentzones for recommended level ranges relative to the normal level for thevehicle further comprises at least one of the following: vehicle weight,aerodynamic properties, comfort, safety, handling, vehicle configuration,sustainability and wear of vehicle components.
    The system I comprises according to an embodiment means 190 fordetermining the weight of the vehicle. The means 190 for determining thevehicle weight may comprise any suitable detection means.
    The system I comprises according to an embodiment means 200 fordetermining the aerodynamic properties of the vehicle. The means 200 fordetermining the aerodynamic properties of the vehicle comprises detectormeans for detecting position of air guiding devices for guiding air for reducing air resistance.
    The system I comprises according to an embodiment means 210 fordetermining comfort level. The means 210 for determining comfort levelcomprises means for determining a set mode for degree of comfortcomprising damping settings and suspension settings of the suspensionsystem of the vehicle. Modes could be comfort mode with high degree ofcomfort and sport mode with lower degree of comfort relative to the comfort mode. 22 The system I comprises according to an embodiment means 220 fordetermining safety level.
    The system I comprises according to an embodiment means 230 fordetermining vehicle configuration. The means 230 for determining vehicleconfiguration comprises means for identifying the vehicle type, which may bestored in storage means of the vehicle and/or externally. The means 230 fordetermining vehicle configuration comprises means for determining vehicledimensions such as height and width, the means according to anembodiment comprising one or more camera units. The vehicle dimensionsare according to an embodiment stored in storage means in the vehicleand/or externally.
    The system I comprises according to an embodiment means 240 fordetermining sustainability and wear of vehicle components. The means 240for determining sustainability and wear of vehicle components may comprise any suitable sensor member for sensing wear of vehicle components.
    The system I comprises according to an embodiment means 250 forestablishing contact between the vehicle and a vehicle-to-infrastructureThe communication arrangement V2l is configured to provide information such as communication arrangement V2l. vehicle-to-infrastructureinformation regarding height of bridges, tunnels, roofs of gas stations, garage, road constructions, or the like.
    According to an embodiment, information regarding certain vehicle relatedcharacteristics for defining the different zones for recommended level rangesrelative to the normal level for the vehicle is comprised in the electroniccontrol unit 100. According to an embodiment the vehicle configuration forthe vehicle is stored in and retrievable from the electronic control unit 100.According to an embodiment the aerodynamic properties of the vehicle arestored in and retrievable from the electronic control unit 100. According to anembodiment a set comfort level or comfort mode for the vehicle is stored in 23 and retrievable from the electronic control unit 100. According to anembodiment a set safety level or safety mode for the vehicle is stored in andretrievable from the electronic control unit 100.
    The electronic control unit 100 is operably connected to the means 110 fordetermining the level of the vehicle relative to a normal level for the vehiclevia a link 10. The electronic control unit 100 is via the link 10 arranged toreceive a signal from the means 110 representing data for current level of thevehicle.
    The electronic control unit 100 is operably connected to the at least one levelsensor unit 112 via a link 12. The electronic control unit 100 is via the link 12arranged to receive a signal from the at least one level sensor unit 112representing level data for current level of the vehicle relative to a normal level for the vehicle.
    The electronic control unit 100 is operably connected to the means 114 fordetermining the pressure and pressure change in the respective bellows unitof the air suspension system via a link 14. The electronic control unit 100 isvia the link 14 arranged to receive a signal from the means 114 representingpressure data for current pressure and possible pressure change in bellowsunits of the vehicle corresponding to a certain level of the vehicle relative to a normal level for the vehicle.
    The electronic control unit 100 is operably connected to the means 120 fordetermining the current speed of the vehicle via a link 20. The electroniccontrol unit 100 is via the link 20 arranged to receive a signal from the means120 representing speed data for current speed of the vehicle.
    The electronic control unit 100 is operably connected to the means 130 fordetermining the type of road on which the vehicle is travelling via a link 30.The electronic control unit 100 is via the link 30 arranged to receive a signalfrom the means 130 representing data for the type of road on which thevehicle is currently travelling. 24 The electronic control unit 100 is operably connected to the means 132 fordetecting the road type via a link 32. The electronic control unit 100 is via thelink 32 arranged to receive a signal from the means 130 representing data fordetected road type.
    The electronic control unit 100 is operably connected to the navigationmeans 134 via a link 34. The electronic control unit 100 is via the link 34arranged to receive a signal from the navigation means 134 representingnavigation data comprising map data and position data for the road type onwhich the vehicle is currently travelling.
    The electronic control unit 100 is operably connected to the means 140 fordetermining whether the current level of the vehicle is within a rangecorresponding to a recommended zone based on the thus determined speedand road type via a link 40. The electronic control unit 100 is via the link 40arranged to receive a signal from the means 140 representing data for correspondence of current level to recommended zone.
    The electronic control unit 100 is operably connected to the means 142 fordetermining the current recommended zone via a link 42. The electroniccontrol unit 100 is via the link 42 arranged to receive a signal from the means142 representing data for recommended zone.
    The electronic control unit 100 is operably connected to the means 144 forcomparing the current level of the vehicle with the current recommendedzone via a link 44. The electronic control unit 100 is via the link 44 arrangedto receive a signal from the means 144 representing data for comparison of current level of the vehicle and current recommended zone.
    The electronic control unit 100 is operably connected to the means 150 forevaluating the level of the vehicle during drive so as to determine if and towhat extent the level of the vehicle has been outside a recommended zonevia a link 50. The electronic control unit 100 is via the link 50 arranged toreceive a signal from the means 150 representing evaluation data for if and to what extent the level of the vehicle has been outside a recommended ZOne.
    The electronic control unit 100 is operably connected to the means 152 fordetermining the number of times the vehicle has been outside arecommended zone within in a certain period of time via a link 52. Theelectronic control unit 100 is via the link 52 arranged to receive a signal fromthe means 152 representing data for number of times the vehicle has been outside a recommended zone.
    The electronic control unit 100 is operably connected to the means 154 fordetermining, for each time the vehicle was outside a recommended zone, forhow long time the vehicle was outside the recommended zone via a link 54.The electronic control unit 100 is via the link 54 arranged to receive a signalfrom the means 154 representing data for how long time the vehicle has been outside the recommended zone.
    The electronic control unit 100 is operably connected to the means 160 fortaking action so as to facilitate obtaining recommended level ranges if thelevel of the vehicle has been outside a recommended zone exceeding adetermined extent via a link 60. The electronic control unit 100 is via the link60 arranged to send a signal to the means 160 representing data for if and towhat extent the level of the vehicle has been outside a recommended zone.
    The electronic control unit 100 is operably connected to the means 162 forpresenting for the operator of the vehicle that the current level of the vehicleis outside the recommended zone via a link 62. The electronic control unit100 is via the link 62 arranged to send a signal to the means 162representing data for presenting for the operator of the vehicle, visuallyand/or audibly, that the current level of the vehicle is outside the recommended zone.
    The electronic control unit 100 is operably connected to the means 164 forpresenting for the operator of the vehicle a recommended level range via a 26 link 64. The electronic control unit 100 is via the link 64 arranged to send asignal to the means 164 representing data for presenting for the operator of the vehicle, visually and/or audibly, a recommended level range.
    The electronic control unit 100 is operably connected to the means 166 forchanging the level of the vehicle to a level within the recommended zone viaa link 66. The electronic control unit 100 is via the link 66 arranged to send asignal to the means 166 representing data for changing the level of the vehicle to a level within the recommended zone.
    The electronic control unit 100 is operably connected to the means 168 foradapting the vehicle speed so as to enter into a recommended zone via a link68. The electronic control unit 100 is via the link 68 arranged to send a signalto the means 168 representing data for adapting the vehicle speed so as to enter into a recommended zone.
    The electronic control unit 100 is operably connected to the internal storagemeans 170 for storing the result of said evaluation of drive comprising theextent of driving outside a recommended zone on board the vehicle via a link70. The electronic control unit 100 is via the link 70 arranged to send a signalto the means 170 representing data for result of said evaluation of drive comprising the extent of driving outside a recommended zone.
    The electronic control unit 100 is operably connected to the external storagemeans 180 for storing the result of said evaluation of drive comprising theextent of driving outside a recommended zone externally via a link 80. Theelectronic control unit 100 is via the link 80 arranged to send a signal to themeans 180 representing data for result of said evaluation of drive comprising the extent of driving outside a recommended zone.
    The electronic control unit 100 is operably connected to the means 190 fordetermining the weight of the vehicle via a link 90. The electronic control unit100 is via the link 90 arranged to receive a signal from the means 190 representing data for vehicle weight. 27 The electronic control unit 100 is operably connected to the means 200 fordetermining the aerodynamic properties of the vehicle via a link 200a. Theelectronic control unit 100 is via the link 200a arranged to receive a signalfrom the means 200 representing data for aerodynamic properties of the vehicle.
    The electronic control unit 100 is operably connected to the means 210 fordetermining comfort level via a link 210a. The electronic control unit 100 isvia the link 210a arranged to receive a signal from the means 210representing data for comfort level.
    The electronic control unit 100 is operably connected to the means 220 fordetermining safety level via a link 220a. The electronic control unit 100 is viathe link 220a arranged to receive a signal from the means 220 representingdata for safety level.
    The electronic control unit 100 is operably connected to the means 230 fordetermining vehicle configuration via a link 230a. The electronic control unit100 is via the link 230a arranged to receive a signal from the means 230representing data for vehicle configuration.
    The electronic control unit 100 is operably connected to the means 240 fordetermining sustainability and wear of vehicle components via a link 240a.The electronic control unit 100 is via the link 240a arranged to receive asignal from the means 240 representing data for sustainability and wear ofvehicle components. Data for sustainability and wear could comprise serviceintervals, latest workshop visit, replaced components, estimatedsustainability/ life expectancy. A reduced life expectancy could be determinedif the number of times the vehicle has been outside a recommended zonewithin in a certain period of time obtained from the means 152 and for howlong time obtained from the means 154 exceeds a certain limit, which couldresult in a DTC when the vehicle would be determined to be hazardous to drive. 28 The electronic control unit 100 is operably connected to the means 250 forestablishing contact between the vehicle and a vehicle-to-infrastructurecommunication arrangement V2| via a link 250a. The electronic control unit100 is via the link 250a arranged to receive a signal from the means 250 representing communication data comprising traffic information.
    Fig. 3 schematically illustrates a block diagram of a method for evaluatingdriving of a vehicle taking level of the vehicle into consideration according toan embodiment of the present invention. Different zones for recommendedlevel ranges relative to a normal level for the vehicle based on characteristics comprising road type and vehicle speed are defined.
    According to the embodiment the method for evaluating driving of a vehicletaking level of the vehicle into consideration comprises step S1. ln this stepthe level of the vehicle relative to a normal level for the vehicle is determined.
    According to the embodiment the method for evaluating driving of a vehicletaking level of the vehicle into consideration comprises step S2. ln this stepthe current speed of the vehicle is determined.
    According to the embodiment the method for evaluating driving of a vehicletaking level of the vehicle into consideration comprises step S3. ln this stepthe type of road on which the vehicle is travelling is determined.
    According to the embodiment the method for evaluating driving of a vehicletaking level of the vehicle into consideration comprises step S4. ln this step itis determined, based on the thus determined speed and road type, whetherthe current level of the vehicle is within a range corresponding to a recommended zone.
    According to an embodiment of the method the characteristics for definingsaid different zones for recommended level ranges relative to said normal level for the vehicle further comprises at least one of the following: vehicle 29 weight, aerodynamic properties, comfort, safety, handling, vehicle configuration, sustainability and wear of vehicle components.
    According to an embodiment the method comprises the step of evaluatingthe level of the vehicle during drive so as to determine if and to what extent the level of the vehicle has been outside a recommended zone.
    According to an embodiment the method comprises the step of taking actionso as to facilitate obtaining recommended level ranges if the level of thevehicle has been outside a recommended zone exceeding a determined extent.
    According to an embodiment of the method the step of taking actioncomprises presenting for the operator of the vehicle that the current level ofthe vehicle is outside the recommended zone.
    According to an embodiment of the method the step of taking actioncomprises presenting for the operator of the vehicle a recommended level range.
    According to an embodiment of the method the step of taking action comprises changing the level of the vehicle to a level within therecommended zone, and/or adapting the vehicle speed so as to enter into a recommended zone.
    According to an embodiment of the method said action of presenting for theoperator of the vehicle a recommended level range is used for a lower extentthan the extent corresponding to said action of changing the level of thevehicle to a level within the recommended zone, and/or adapting the vehicle speed so as to enter into a recommended zone.
    According to an embodiment the method comprises the step of storing, onboard the vehicle and/or externally, the result of said evaluation of drive comprising the extent of driving outside a recommended zone.
    With reference to figure 5, a diagram of an apparatus 500 is shown. Thecontrol unit 100 described with reference to fig. 3 may according to anembodiment comprise apparatus 500. Apparatus 500 comprises a non-volatile memory 520, a data processing device 510 and a read/write memory550. Non-volatile memory 520 has a first memory portion 530 wherein acomputer program, such as an operating system, is stored for contro|ing thefunction of apparatus 500. Further, apparatus 500 comprises a bus controller,a serial communication port, I/O-means, an A/D-converter, a time date entryand transmission unit, an event counter and an interrupt controller (not shown). Non-volatile memory 520 also has a second memory portion 540.
    A computer program P is provided comprising routines for evaluating drivingof a vehicle taking level of the vehicle into consideration according to anembodiment of the present invention. Different zones for recommended levelranges relative to a normal level for the vehicle based on characteristicscomprising road type and vehicle speed are defined. The program Pcomprises routines for determining the level of the vehicle relative to anormal level for the vehicle. The program P comprises routines fordetermining the current speed of the vehicle. The program P comprisesroutines for determining the type of road on which the vehicle is travelling.The program P comprises routines for, based on the thus determined speedand road type, determining whether the current level of the vehicle is within arange corresponding to a recommended zone. The program P comprisesroutines for evaluating the level of the vehicle during drive so as to determineif and to what extent the level of the vehicle has been outside arecommended zone. The program P comprises routines for taking action soas to facilitate obtaining recommended level ranges if the level of the vehiclehas been outside a recommended zone exceeding a determined extent.Taking action comprises presenting for the operator of the vehicle that thecurrent level of the vehicle is outside the recommended zone. Taking actioncomprises presenting for the operator of the vehicle a recommended levelrange. Taking action comprises changing the level of the vehicle to a level 31 within the recommended zone, and/or adapting the vehicle speed so as toenter into a recommended zone. The program P comprises routines for Theprogram P comprises routines for using the action of presenting for theoperator of the vehicle a recommended level range for a lower extent thanthe extent corresponding to said action of changing the level of the vehicle toa level within the recommended zone, and/or adapting the vehicle speed soas to enter into a recommended zone. The program P comprises routines forThe program P comprises routines for storing, on board the vehicle and/orexternally, the result of said evaluation of drive comprising the extent ofdriving outside a recommended zone. The computer program P may bestored in an executable manner or in a compressed condition in a separate memory 560 and/or in read/write memory 550.
    When it is stated that data processing device 510 performs a certain functionit should be understood that data processing device 510 performs a certainpart of the program which is stored in separate memory 560, or a certain partof the program which is stored in read/write memory 550.
    Data processing device 510 may communicate with a data communicationsport 599 by means of a data bus 515. Non-volatile memory 520 is adaptedfor communication with data processing device 510 via a data bus 512.Separate memory 560 is adapted for communication with data processingdevice 510 via a data bus 511. Read/write memory 550 is adapted forcommunication with data processing device 510 via a data bus 514. To thedata communications port 599 e.g. the links connected to the control units100 may be connected.
    When data is received on data port 599 it is temporarily stored in secondmemory portion 540. When the received input data has been temporarilystored, data processing device 510 is set up to perform execution of code ina manner described above. The signals received on data port 599 can beused by apparatus 500 for determining the level of the vehicle relative to a normal level for the vehicle. The signals received on data port 599 can be 32 used by apparatus 500 for the current speed of the vehicle. The signalsreceived on data port 599 can be used by apparatus 500 for determining thetype of road on which the vehicle is travelling. The signals received on dataport 599 can be used by apparatus 500 for, based on the thus determinedspeed and road type, determining whether the current level of the vehicle iswithin a range corresponding to a recommended zone. The signals receivedon data port 599 can be used by apparatus 500 for evaluating the level of thevehicle during drive so as to determine if and to what extent the level of thevehicle has been outside a recommended zone. The signals received ondata port 599 can be used by apparatus 500 for taking action so as tofacilitate obtaining recommended level ranges if the level of the vehicle hasbeen outside a recommended zone exceeding a determined extent. Takingaction comprises presenting for the operator of the vehicle that the currentlevel of the vehicle is outside the recommended zone. Taking actioncomprises presenting for the operator of the vehicle a recommended levelrange. Taking action comprises changing the level of the vehicle to a levelwithin the recommended zone, and/or adapting the vehicle speed so as toenter into a recommended zone. The signals received on data port 599 canbe used by apparatus 500 for using the action of presenting for the operatorof the vehicle a recommended level range for a lower extent than the extentcorresponding to said action of changing the level of the vehicle to a levelwithin the recommended zone, and/or adapting the vehicle speed so as toenter into a recommended zone. The signals received on data port 599 canbe used by apparatus 500 for storing, on board the vehicle and/or externally,the result of said evaluation of drive comprising the extent ofdriving outside a recommended zone.
    Parts of the methods described herein can be performed by apparatus 500by means of data processing device 510 running the program stored inseparate memory 560 or read/write memory 550. When apparatus 500 runs the program, parts of the methods described herein are executed. 33 The foregoing description of the preferred embodiments of the presentinvention has been provided for the purposes of illustration and description. ltis not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise formsdisclosed. Obviously, many modifications and variations will be apparent topractitioners skilled in the art. The embodiments were chosen and describedin order to best explain the principles of the invention and its practicalapplications, thereby enabling others skilled in the art to understand theinvention for various embodiments and with the various modifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated.
    权利要求:
    Claims (21)
    [1] 1. A method for evaluating driving of a vehicle (1) taking level (L) of thevehicle into consideration, comprising the step of determining (S1) the levelof the vehicle relative to a normal level for the vehicle, characterized bydefining different zones (ZA, ZB, ZC) for recommended level ranges relativeto a normal level for the vehicle based on characteristics comprising roadtype (A, B, C) and vehicle speed, the method comprising the steps of: - determining (S2) the current speed of the vehicle; - determining (S3) the type of road on which the vehicle is travelling; and, - based on the thus determined speed and road type, determining (S4)whether the current level of the vehicle is within a range corresponding to a recommended zone.
    [2] 2. A method according to claim 1, wherein the characteristics for definingsaid different zones for recommended level ranges relative to said normallevel for the vehicle further comprises at least one of the following: vehicleweight, aerodynamic properties, comfort, vehicle safety, handling, configuration, sustainability and wear of vehicle components.
    [3] 3. A method according to any preceding claims, comprising the step ofevaluating the level of the vehicle during drive so as to determine if and towhat extent the level of the vehicle has been outside a recommended zone.
    [4] 4. A method according to claim 3, comprising the step of taking action so asto facilitate obtaining recommended level ranges if the level of the vehicle has been outside a recommended zone exceeding a determined extent.
    [5] 5. A method according to claim 4, wherein the step of taking actioncomprises presenting for the operator of the vehicle that the current level of the vehicle is outside the recommended zone.
    [6] 6. A method according to claim 4 or 5, wherein the step of taking actioncomprises presenting for the operator of the vehicle a recommended level range.
    [7] 7. A method according to any of claims 4-6, wherein the step of takingaction comprises changing the level of the vehicle to a level within therecommended zone, and/or adapting the vehicle speed so as to enter into a recommended zone.
    [8] 8. A method according to claim 4 or 5, wherein said action of presenting forthe operator of the vehicle a recommended level range is used for a lowerextent than the extent corresponding to said action of changing the level ofthe vehicle to a level within the recommended zone, and/or adapting the vehicle speed so as to enter into a recommended zone.
    [9] 9. A method according to any preceding claims, comprising the step ofstoring, on board the vehicle and/or externally, the result of said evaluation of drive comprising the extent of driving outside a recommended zone.
    [10] 10.A system (I) for evaluating driving of a vehicle (1) taking level of thevehicle into consideration, comprising means (110) for determining the levelof the vehicle relative to a normal level for the vehicle, characterized in thatdifferent zones (ZA, ZB, ZC) for recommended level ranges relative to anormal level for the vehicle based on characteristics comprising road type (A,B, C) and vehicle speed are arranged to be defined, the system comprisingmeans (120) for determining the current speed of the vehicle; means (130)for determining the type of road on which the vehicle is travelling; and, means(140) for determining whether the current level (L) of the vehicle (1) is withina range corresponding to a recommended zone based on the thus determined speed and road type.
    [11] 11.A system according to claim 10, wherein the characteristics for definingsaid different zones for recommended level ranges relative to said normal level for the vehicle further comprises at least one of the following: vehicle 36 weight, aerodynamic properties, comfort, safety, handling, vehicle configuration, sustainability and wear of vehicle components.
    [12] 12.A system according to claim 10 or 11, comprising means (150) forevaluating the level of the vehicle during drive so as to determine if and to what extent the level of the vehicle has been outside a recommended zone.
    [13] 13. A system according to claim 12, comprising means (160) for taking actionso as to facilitate obtaining recommended level ranges if the level of thevehicle has been outside a recommended zone exceeding a determined extent.
    [14] 14.A system according to claim 13, wherein the means (160) for takingaction comprises means (162) for presenting for the operator of the vehiclethat the current level of the vehicle is outside the recommended zone.
    [15] 15. A system according to claim 13 or 14, wherein the means (160) for takingaction comprises means (164) for presenting for the operator of the vehicle a recommended level range.
    [16] 16. A system according to any of claims 4-6, wherein the means (160) fortaking action comprises means (166) for changing the level of the vehicle to alevel within the recommended zone, and/or means (168) for adapting the vehicle speed so as to enter into a recommended zone.
    [17] 17.A system according to claim 13 or 14, wherein the means (164) forpresenting for the operator of the vehicle a recommended level range isarranged to be used for a lower extent than the extent corresponding to saidmeans (166) for changing the level of the vehicle to a level within therecommended zone, and/or the means (168) for adapting the vehicle speed so as to enter into a recommended zone.
    [18] 18. A system according to any preceding claims, comprising means (170) forstoring the result of said evaluation of drive comprising the extent of drivingoutside a recommended zone on board the vehicle and/or means (180) for 37 storing the result of said evaluation of drive comprising the extent of driving outside a recommended zone externally.
    [19] 19. A vehicle (1) comprising a system (I) according to any of claims 10-18.
    [20] 20. A computer program (P) for evaluating driving of a vehicle taking level ofthe vehicle into consideration, said computer program (P) comprisingprogram code which, when run on an electronic control unit (100) or anothercomputer (500) connected to the electronic control unit (100), causes theelectronic control unit to perform the steps according to claim 1-9.
    [21] 21. A computer program product comprising a digital storage medium storing the computer program according to claim 20.
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    同族专利:
    公开号 | 公开日
    SE540405C2|2018-09-11|
    DE102016006493B4|2019-04-18|
    DE102016006493A1|2016-12-15|
    BR102016010794A2|2016-12-27|
    引用文献:
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    法律状态:
    2021-10-05| NUG| Patent has lapsed|
    优先权:
    申请号 | 申请日 | 专利标题
    SE1550811A|SE540405C2|2015-06-15|2015-06-15|Method and system for evaluating driving of a vehicle takinglevel of the vehicle into consideration|SE1550811A| SE540405C2|2015-06-15|2015-06-15|Method and system for evaluating driving of a vehicle takinglevel of the vehicle into consideration|
    BR102016010794A| BR102016010794A2|2015-06-15|2016-05-12|method and system for assessing driving of a vehicle taking into account vehicle level|
    DE102016006493.5A| DE102016006493B4|2015-06-15|2016-05-27|A method and system for judging the driving of a vehicle considering the vehicle level according to an embodiment of the present invention|
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