GB2618138A

GB2618138A - System and apparatus suitable for facilitating data communication, and a data communication method in association thereto

Info

Publication number: GB2618138A
Application number: GB2206272.3A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Kumar Sarkar Dibas
Original assignee: Continental Automotive Technologies GmbH
Current assignee: Aumovio Germany GmbH
Priority date: 2022-04-29
Filing date: 2022-04-29
Publication date: 2023-11-01
Also published as: GB202206272D0

Abstract

An apparatus 102 for data communication with a vehicle, the apparatus including a first module to receive at least one input signal, and a second module coupled to the first module, where the second module processes the at least one input signal to determine at least one trigger event. When at least one trigger event is determinable, the second module generates and communicates at least one control signal. Based on the at least one control signal, collection data associated with the at least one trigger event is obtained such that the collection data can be communicated for storage and retrievable for analysis. The apparatus may include a third module for communicating an output signal corresponding to the collection data to a device 104 coupled to the apparatus, such that the device may store the collection data. The apparatus may be usable with or capable of being coupled to the vehicle without substantially modifying the vehicle system infrastructure. The trigger event may be an accident involving the vehicle or an accident involving the vehicle about to occur. The input signal may be received from a sensor or in-vehicle module carried by the vehicle.

Description

SYSTEM AND APPARATUS SUITABLE FOR FACILITATING DATA

COMMUNICATION, AND A DATA COMMUNICATION METHOD IN ASSOCIATION

THERETO

Field Of Invention

The present disclosure generally relates to one or both of a system and an apparatus suitable for facilitating data communication in association with, for example, a vehicle. Data communication can be associated with communication of data collected in association with the vehicle and communicated from the vehicle in the event of an accident and/or shortly prior to an accident involving the vehicle. The present disclosure further relates a data communication method which can be associated with the system and/or the apparatus.

Background

Generally, it is helpful to be able to retrieve information which can be capable of assisting in an accident investigation. Conventional information retrieval techniques include the use of a dedicated recorder for such a purpose.

An example would be the use of a flight recorder in connection with an aircraft. The flight recorder is an electronic recording device placed in an aircraft for the purpose of facilitating the investigation of aviation accidents and incidents. A flight recorder can also be generally referred to as a "Black Box". Such a "Black Box" can typically be considered to be integrated with the hardware architecture of the aircraft.

It can be appreciated that dedicated hardware (e.g., to implement such a "Black Box" in the aircraft's hardware architecture) which may not be necessary/essential for functional operation of a vehicle may be required. That is, such dedicated hardware can actually be considered non-essential for the purpose of operating the vehicle. Therefore, integrating such dedicated hardware in the vehicle hardware architecture may add to design complexity and, possibly, overall cost.

The present disclosure contemplates that conventional information retrieval techniques do not facilitate information retrieval in an efficient and/or an optimal manner, and there is a need to address (or at least mitigate) such an issue/ such issues

Summary of the Invention

In accordance with an aspect of the disclosure, there is provided an apparatus which can, for example, be suitable for facilitating communication of data in relation to, for example, a vehicle. For example, the apparatus can be suitable for use in association with a vehicle, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.

Specifically, in one embodiment, the present disclosure contemplates an apparatus suitable for use for data communication in association with, for example, a vehicle. The vehicle can be associated with a system infrastructure (e.g., a hardware-based infrastructure which can include at least one sensor and/or at least one in-vehicle module). In this regard, it is appreciable that the vehicle can carry one or both of at least one sensor and at least one in-vehicle module (i.e., at least one of the sensor(s) and the in-vehicle module(s); the sensor(s) and/or the in-vehicle module(s)).

The apparatus can include a first module and a second module. The first module can be coupled to the second module The first module can be configured to receive at least one input signal (e.g., communicable from the sensor(s) and/or the in-vehicle module(s)) and the second module can be configured to process the input signal(s) in a manner so as so detect/determine occurrence of at least one trigger event. When the trigger event(s) can be determined (i.e., positively determined), the second module can be further configured to generate and communicate at least one control signal. Collection data associated with the trigger event(s) can be obtained based on the control signal(s). The collection data can be communicated for storage and can be retrieved for analysis. Analysis can refer to analysis of data in relation to one or both of an accident (e.g., involving the vehicle) and an accident (e.g., involving the vehicle) which may be about to occur. In this regard, the trigger event(s) can be associated with one or both of an accident (e.g., involving the vehicle) and an accident (e.g., involving the vehicle) which may be about to occur.

The apparatus can, in one embodiment, further include a third module which can be configured to communicate at least one output signal. The output signal(s) can, for example, correspond to the collection data. Moreover, the output signal(s) can be communicated to a device coupled to the apparatus. The device can be configured to store the collection data.

In one embodiment, the apparatus (e.g., a mobile device such as a Smartphone) can be carried into the vehicle by a user of the vehicle. It is contemplated that the apparatus can, in this regard, be used with the vehicle system infrastructure without substantially modifying the vehicle system infrastructure (e.g., no substantial modification/no modification to the hardware-based system infrastructure of the vehicle may be necessary).

In one embodiment, the apparatus (e.g., a "plug and play" type device) can be capable of being coupled to the vehicle system infrastructure without substantially modifying the vehicle system infrastructure (e.g., no substantial modification/no modification to the hardware-based system infrastructure of the vehicle may be necessary).

In one embodiment, the apparatus can be an existing electronic control unit or ECU having high performance computing capabilities and already connected/coupled to the vehicle system infrastructure without substantially modifying the vehicle system infrastructure (e.g., no substantial modification/no modification to the hardware-based system infrastructure of the vehicle may be necessary).

Appreciably, the apparatus can, for example, be carried into a vehicle (e.g., a module device which can be carried into the vehicle by a user), installed in a vehicle, by manner of, for example, "plug and play" (e.g., a "plug and play" type device) and/or an existing electronic control unit or ECU having high performance computing capabilities. In this manner, existing system/infrastructure (e.g., vehicle system/infrastructure such as the aforementioned sensor(s) and/or the in-vehicle module(s)) can possibly be utilized without the need for substantive modification (e.g., physical modification by including dedicated hardware).

Specifically, it is appreciable that communication of data (i.e., collection data) which can be helpful for, for example, investigative purpose(s) (e.g., an accident investigation) can possibly be facilitated by manner of utilizing, substantially, existing system/infrastructure (e.g., vehicle system/infrastructure such as the aforementioned sensor(s) and/or the in-vehicle module(s)) without the need for, for example, physical modification of existing system/infrastructure (e.g., vehicle system/infrastructure) by including dedicated hardware module (e.g., a recorder) solely/substantially for the purpose of recording data for investigative purpose(s).

It is contemplated that such modification may add to design complexity and, possibly, overall cost. By facilitating the possibility of communication of data which can be helpful for such investigative purpose(s) by manner of utilizing, substantially, existing system/infrastructure (e.g., vehicle system/infrastructure), it is appreciable that information retrieval (i.e., communication of data for investigative purpose(s)) can possibly be facilitated in an efficient and/or an optimal manner.

It is further appreciable that the aforementioned collection data can be associated with event occurrence (i.e., one or more trigger events such as whether an event related to an accident which has occurred, an accident which is about to occur and/or an accident which may occur). Accordingly, collection data can, for example, be considered to be data deemed to be substantially relevant for investigation and communicated, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure. Appreciably, it is therefore not necessary for all data (i.e., data which may not be related/relevant to the trigger event(s)) to be retained. Therefore, data storage can be facilitated in a targeted manner (e.g., only data deemed to be substantially relevant for investigation would be retained) and storage burden/requirement associated with the vehicle can possibly be eased, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.

The above-described advantageous aspect(s) of the apparatus of the present disclosure can also apply analogously (all) the aspect(s) of a below described data communication method of the present disclosure. Likewise, all below described advantageous aspect(s) of the data communication method of the disclosure can also apply analogously (all) the aspect(s) of above described apparatus of the disclosure.

In accordance with an aspect of the disclosure, there is provided a data communication method which can be suitable for facilitating collection of data for analysis.

The data communication method can include: * a determination step wherein at least one trigger event is determinable (e.g., by the earlier mentioned apparatus, in accordance with an aspect of the disclosure) * a collection step, wherein collection data can be obtained based on positive determination of the trigger event(s) * an output step wherein at least one output signal corresponding to the collection data can be communicated for storage and subsequent retrieval.

In one embodiment, collection of data can be associated with a vehicle, wherein the trigger event(s) can be associated with one or both of an accident (e.g., involving the vehicle) and an accident (e.g., involving the vehicle) which may be about to occur.

In view of the foregoing, it is appreciable that communication of data (i.e., collection data) which can be helpful for, for example, investigative purpose(s) (e.g., an accident investigation) can possibly be facilitated by manner of utilizing, substantially, existing system/infrastructure (e.g., vehicle system/infrastructure such as the aforementioned sensor(s) and/or the in-vehicle module(s)) without the need for, for example, physical modification of existing system/infrastructure (e.g., vehicle system/infrastructure) by including dedicated hardware module (e.g., a recorder) solely/substantially for the purpose of recording data for investigative purpose(s).

It is further appreciable that the aforementioned collection data can be associated with event occurrence (i.e., one or more trigger events such as whether an event related to an accident which has occurred, an accident which is about to occur and/or an accident which may occur). Accordingly, collection data can, for example, be considered to be data deemed to be substantially relevant for investigation and communicated in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure. Appreciably, it is therefore not necessary for all data (i.e., data which may not be related/relevant to the trigger event(s)) to be retained. Therefore, data storage can be facilitated in a targeted manner (e.g., only data deemed to be substantially relevant for investigation would be retained) and storage burden/requirement associated with the vehicle can possibly be eased, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.

The present disclosure further contemplates a computer program (not shown) which can include instructions which, when the program is executed by a computer (not shown), cause the computer to carry out the determination step, the collection step and/or the output step as discussed with reference to the data collection method.

The present disclosure yet further contemplates a computer readable storage medium (not shown) having data stored therein representing software executable by a computer (not shown), the software including instructions, when executed by the computer, to carry out the determination step, the collection step and/or the output step as discussed with reference to the data collection method.

Brief Description of the Drawings

Embodiments of the disclosure are described hereinafter with reference to the following drawings, in which: Fig. 1 shows a system which can include at least one apparatus, according to an

embodiment of the disclosure;

Fig, 2 shows the apparatus of Fig, 1 in further detail, according to an embodiment of the disclosure; and Fig. 3 shows a data communication method in association with the system of Fig. 1,

according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

Detailed Description

The present disclosure contemplates that if it is desired for an existing system/infrastructure (e.g., vehicle hardware system/infrastructure) which does not have the capability to record to include such a capability, modification to the existing system/infrastructure may become necessary. Such modification may add to design complexity and, possibly, overall cost.

The present disclosure contemplates that it would be helpful to facilitate the possibility of communication of data which can be helpful for, for example, investigative purpose(s) (e.g., an accident investigation) by manner of utilizing, substantially, existing system/infrastructure (e.g., vehicle hardware system/infrastructure) which may not have a dedicated hardware module for the purpose of recording. In this regard, it is appreciable that, for example, modification of existing system/infrastructure (e.g., vehicle hardware system/infrastructure) to include a dedicated hardware module (e.g., a recorder) solely/substantially for the purpose of recording data for investigative purpose(s) would possibly be unnecessary.

As noted earlier, such modification may add to design complexity and, possibly, overall cost. By facilitating the possibility of communication of data which can be helpful for such investigative purpose(s) by manner of utilizing, substantially, existing system/infrastructure (e.g., vehicle system/infrastructure), it is appreciable that information retrieval (i.e., communication of data for investigative purpose(s)) can possibly be facilitated in an efficient and/or an optimal manner.

In one possible situation, the present disclosure contemplates that, in one embodiment, something akin to a 'Virtual Vehicle Black Box" (VVBB) can possibly be realized even when using existing vehicle infrastructure(s)/system(s) (e.g., existing vehicle hardware modules) without the need/requirement for modification/substantial modification. The VVBB can, for example, be in the form of a subscription-based SaaS (Software as a Service) which can be used for accident investigation. The SaaS can, for example, be in the form of a software application (i.e., a SaaS app) which can be carried/hosted by a microprocessor associated with an existing hardware module of the vehicle having high performance computing capabilities and connected to the existing vehicle network (i.e., the microprocessor can, for example, a part of existing hardware carried by the vehicle) necessary for basic/fundamental vehicle operation and/or by a mobile device which can be carried into the vehicle by a user and/or by a "plug and play" type device. Moreover, the data (data which can be helpful for such investigative purpose(s)) can, for example, be temporarily cached in existing hardware (e.g., a storage device) carried by the vehicle and can be communicated to a remote storage (e.g., cloud-based storage) for storage and subsequent retrieval in an event an accident occurs (i.e., an accident has occurred)/the possibility of an accident occurrence (e.g., an accident is about to happen/an accident may occur) is determined. In this manner, it can be appreciated that data storage can be facilitated in a targeted manner (e.g., only data deemed to be substantially relevant for investigation would be retained) and storage burden/requirement associated with the vehicle can possibly be eased, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.

The foregoing will be discussed in further detail with reference to Fig. 1 to Fig. 3 30 hereinafter.

Referring to Fig. 1, a system 100 is shown, according to an embodiment of the disclosure. As shown, the system 100 can include one or more apparatuses 102, at least one device 104 and, optionally, a communication network 106, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.

The apparatus(es) 102 can be coupled to the device(s) 104. Specifically, the apparatus(es) 102 can, for example, be coupled to the device(s) 104 via the communication network 106.

In one embodiment, the apparatus(es) 102 can be coupled to the communication network 106 and the device(s) 104 can be coupled to the communication network 106. Coupling can be by manner of one or both of wired coupling and wireless coupling. The apparatus(es) 102 can, in general, be configured to communicate with the device(s) 104 via the communication network 106, according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

The system 100 can, for example, be suitable for facilitating data communication, in

accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.

Data communication can, for example, be associated with communication of data collected (i.e., referable to as "collection data" hereinafter) in response to at least one zo trigger event, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure. It is contemplated that the trigger event(s) can, for example, signify cause for concern(s) and collection data associated with the trigger event(s) can be relevant for, for example, investigative purposes.

For example, the system 100 can be suitable for facilitating data communication in association with a vehicle (not shown), in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure, and one possible cause for concern can, for example, relate to an accident involving the vehicle/a potential accident involving the vehicle.

The system 100 will now be discussed based on an example context of collection data being based on data collected in association with a vehicle (e.g., an automobile) in response to one or more trigger events, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure, hereinafter.

In an example context, collection data can be based on data collected in association with the vehicle and communicated from the vehicle in the event(s) (i.e., trigger event(s)) of one or both of an accident involving the vehicle and shortly prior to an accident involving the vehicle, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.

Generally, collection data, in the example context, can include any one of vehicle data, user data and sensor data, or any combination thereof. More specifically, a vehicle can, for example, carry any one of one or more sensors, one or more in-modules and one or more users, or any combination thereof.

The sensor(s) can, for example, include one or both of image-based sensor(s) (e.g., front, rear and/or side image capturing device(s) such as camera(s)) and audio-based sensor(s) (e.g., audio capturing device(s) such as microphone(s)). The in-vehicle module(s) can, for example, hardware-based in-vehicle module(s) (e.g., a control area network -based hardware, a Global Navigation Satellite System and/or at least one detector such as a speedometer and/or impact detector/crash sensor). The user(s) can, for example, include a driver and/or one or more passengers.

The sensor(s) can be configured to capture/receive one or both of image-related data (e.g., image(s)/video signal(s) captured/received by the camera(s)) and audio-related data (e.g., audio signal(s) captured/received by the microphone(s)). Sensor data can be communicated from the sensor(s) based on the image-related data and/or the audio-related data. Such sensor data can, for example, relate to image-related data and/or audio-related data associated with environment of the vehicle (e.g., outside of the vehicle and/or without the vehicle).

The in-vehicle module(s) can be configured to generate and communicate vehicle data. Vehicle data can, for example, include speed of the vehicle (e.g., speed data which can be obtained based on the speedometer), location of the vehicle (e.g., location data which can be obtained based on the Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) and/or impact/crash experienced by the vehicle (e.g., impact/crash data based on the impact detector/crash sensor), in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure. Vehicle data can, for example, be communicated from the in-vehicle module(s) to the control area network-based hardware. The control area network-based hardware can, for example, correspond to a control area network (CAN) transceiver. Vehicle data can, for example, be communicated from the CAN transceiver, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.

The user(s) can, for example generate one or both of image related data (e.g., facial expression(s)) and/or audio related data (e.g., voice/speech). Such user-based image related data and/or audio related data can be captured/received by, for example, the sensor(s) and communicated from the sensor(s), in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.

The vehicle can, for example, further include a storage device which can be configured to carry (e.g., store) the collection data (which can include, for example, the vehicle data, the sensor data and/or the user data) for subsequent retrieval, if desired.

As mentioned earlier, the system 100 can include one or more apparatuses 102, at least one device 104 and, optionally, a communication network 106, in accordance zo with an embodiment of the disclosure.

The apparatus(es) 102 can, for example, correspond to one or more computers (e.g., an electronic device/module having computing capabilities such as an electronic mobile device which can be carried into a vehicle or an electronic module which can be installed in a vehicle, by manner of, for example, "plug and play" or existing electronic control unit or ECU having high performance computing capabilities and connected to the existing vehicle network to receive all types of vehicle data, sensor data and user data), in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure. The apparatus(es) 102 can, in one embodiment, include one or more processors (not shown) which can be configured to perform one or more processing tasks.

Generally, the apparatus(es) 102 can be configured for one or both of determination/detection of at least one trigger event and obtaining collection data based on a positive determination/detection of the trigger event(s) (e.g., determination of at least one trigger event and/or obtaining collection data based on the trigger event(s)). In one embodiment, the apparatus(es) 102 can be further configured to facilitate communication of collection data/ to communicate collection data. For example, collection data can be communicated from the apparatus(es) 102 for further processing. Further processing, as will be discussed later in further detail, of the collection data can, for example, include storage-based processing, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure. By manner of storage-based processing, collection data can be stored and retrieved for, for example, analysis as desired. Analysis of the collection data can be in relation to the aforementioned investigative purpose in an event associated with, for example, an accident. In a specific example, analysis of collection data, in relation to an accident-related investigative purpose, can be in connection with an event related to an accident which has occurred, an accident which is about to occur and/or an accident which may occur. As mentioned earlier, collection data can, in the earlier discussed example context, include any one of vehicle data, user data and sensor data, or any combination thereof, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure. In this regard, the apparatus(es) 102 can, in one embodiment, be coupled to the sensor(s) and/or the in-vehicle module(s), in a manner so as to be capable of receiving data accordingly. Coupling can be by manner of one or both of wired coupling and wireless coupling. It is appreciable that the apparatus(es) 102 can be configured to determine event occurrence (i.e., whether an event related to an accident which has occurred, an accident which is about to occur and/or an accident which may occur). Such event occurrence can be associated to/correspond to the earlier mentioned trigger event(s). Upon determination of the trigger event(s), the apparatus(es) 102 can be configured to obtain data from the sensor(s) and/or the in-vehicle module(s) based on the trigger event(s) and communicate the collection data accordingly. Data obtained from the sensor(s) and/or the in-vehicle module(s) based on determination of the trigger event(s) can correspond to the collection data, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure. The apparatus(es) 102 will be discussed later in further detail with reference to Fig. 2, according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

Earlier mentioned, collection data can be communicated from the apparatus(es) 102 for further processing. Further processing of the collection data can, for example, include storage-based processing, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure. By manner of storage-based processing, collection data can be stored and retrieved for, for example, analysis as desired.

Specifically, the apparatus(es) 102 can be configured to communicate the collection data to the device(s) 104, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.

The device(s) 104 can be configured to receive collection data communicated from the apparatus(es) 102 and perform one or more processing tasks (e.g., storage-based processing task(s)) of storing the collection data, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure. The device(s) 104 can, for example, correspond to at least one remote storage device, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure. A remote storage device can, for example, be a cloud-based storage device. In another example, the device(s) 104 can correspond to at least one backend server which can, for example, be cloud hosted (e.g., a cloud hosted backend server). Collection data stored by the device(s) 104 can, for example, be retrieved for analysis as desired, in accordance with an embodiment of the

zo disclosure.

The communication network 106 can, for example, correspond to an Internet communication network, a wired-based communication network, a wireless-based communication network, or any combination thereof. Communication (i.e., between the apparatus(es) 102 and the device(s) 104) via the communication network 106 can be by manner of one or both of wired communication and wireless communication.

As discussed earlier, the apparatus 102 can, for example, be carried into a vehicle (e.g., a module device which can be carried into the vehicle by a user) and/or installed in a vehicle, by manner of, for example, "plug and play" (e.g., a "plug and play" type device) and/or an existing electronic control unit or ECU having high performance computing capabilities and connected to the existing vehicle network.

In this manner, existing system/infrastructure (e.g., vehicle system/infrastructure such as the aforementioned sensor(s) and/or the in-vehicle module(s)) can possibly be utilized without the need for substantive modification (e.g., physical modification by including dedicated hardware).

It is further appreciable that the aforementioned collection data can be associated with event occurrence (i.e., one or more trigger events such as whether an event related to an accident which has occurred, an accident which is about to occur and/or an accident which may occur). Accordingly, collection data can, for example, be considered to be data deemed to be substantially relevant for investigation and communicated from the apparatus(es) 102 to, for example, the device(s) 104, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure. Appreciably, it is therefore not necessary for all data (i.e., data which may not be related/relevant to the trigger event(s)) to be retained. Therefore, data storage can be facilitated in a targeted manner (e.g., only data deemed to be substantially relevant for investigation would be retained) and storage burden/requirement associated with the vehicle can possibly be eased, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.

The aforementioned apparatus(es) 102 will be discussed in further detail with reference to Fig. 2 hereinafter.

Referring to Fig. 2, an apparatus 102 is shown in further detail in the context of an example implementation 200, according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

In the example implementation 200, the apparatus 102 can correspond to an electronic module 200a which can be capable of performing one or more processing tasks in association with any one of detection/determination of at least one trigger event (e.g., event occurrence determination), obtaining collection data and communication of collection data, or any combination thereof (i.e., detection/determination of at least one trigger event, obtaining collection data and/or communication of collection data). The electronic module 200a can, for example, correspond to a mobile device which can be carried into the vehicle by a user or a "plug and play" electronic module or an existing electronic control unit or ECU connected to the existing vehicle network having high performance computing capabilities, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure..

In one embodiment, the electronic module 200a can be capable of performing processing task(s) in association with determination of one or more trigger events. In another embodiment, the electronic module 200a can be capable of performing processing task(s) in association with obtaining collection data. In yet another embodiment, the electronic module 200a can be capable of performing processing task(s) in association with communication of collection data. In yet a further embodiment, the electronic module 200a can be capable of performing processing task(s) in association with determination of one or more trigger events, obtaining collection data and communication of collection data. In yet a further additional embodiment, the electronic module 200a can be capable of performing processing task(s) in association with at least one of determination of one or more trigger events, obtaining collection data and communication of collection data 0.e., any combination of determination of one or more trigger events, obtaining collection data and communication of collection data; determination of one or more trigger events, obtaining collection data and/or communication of collection data).

The electronic module 200a can, for example, include a casing 200b. Moreover, the electronic module 200a can, for example, carry any one of a first module 202, a second module 204, a third module 206, or any combination thereof.

In one embodiment, the electronic module 200a can carry a first module 202, a second module 204 and/or a third module 206. In a specific example, the electronic 10 module 200a can carry a first module 202, a second module 204 and a third module 206, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.

In this regard, it is appreciable that, in one embodiment, the casing 200b can be shaped and dimensioned to carry any one of the first module 202, the second module 204 and the third module 206, or any combination thereof.

The first module 202 can be coupled to one or both of the second module 204 and the third module 206. The second module 204 can be coupled to one or both of the first module 202 and the third module 206. The third module 206 can be coupled to one or both of the first module 202 and the second module 204. In one example, the first module 202 can be coupled to the second module 204 and the second module 204 can be coupled to the third module 206, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure. Coupling between the first module 202, the second module 204 and/or the third module 206 can, for example, be by manner of one or both of wired coupling and wireless coupling. Each of the first module 202, the second module 204 and the third module 206 can correspond to one or both of a hardware-based module and a software-based module, according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

In one example, the first module 202 can correspond to a hardware-based receiver which can be configured to receive one or more input signals. The input signal(s) can, for example, include data from the sensor(s), data from the in-vehicle module(s) and/or the collection data.

The second module 204 can, for example, correspond to a hardware-based processor which can be configured to perform one or more processing tasks in association with any one of, or any combination of, the following: * Detection/determination of one or more trigger events based on the input signal(s) * Generating one or more control signals based on the detection/determination of the trigger event(s) and obtaining collection data based on the control signal(s) * Obtaining the collection data based on the control signal(s) * Generating one or more output signal(s) based on the collection data The third module 206 can correspond to a hardware-based transmitter which can be configured to communicate the output signal(s) from the electronic module 200a. The output signal(s) can, for example, include/correspond to the collection data.

Moreover, the output signal(s) can, for example, be communicated from the electronic module 200a to the device(s) 104.

The present disclosure contemplates the possibility that the first and second modules 202/204 can be an integrated software-hardware based module (e.g., an electronic part which can carry a software program/algorithm in association with receiving and processing functions/an electronic module programmed to perform the functions of receiving and processing). The present disclosure further contemplates the possibility that the first and third modules 202/206 can be an integrated software-hardware based module (e.g., an electronic part which can carry a software program/algorithm in association with receiving and transmitting functions/an electronic module programmed to perform the functions of receiving and transmitting). The present disclosure yet further contemplates the possibility that the first and third modules 202/206 can be an integrated hardware module (e.g., a hardware-based transceiver) capable of performing the functions of receiving and transmitting.

The example implantation 200 will now be discussed in further detail in the context of an example scenario hereinafter.

In the example scenario, the input signal(s) can be communicated from the one or both of the sensor(s) and in-vehicle module(s), in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure. The input signal(s) can be communicated from the sensor(s) and/or the in-vehicle module(s) and received by the electronic module 200a. In one embodiment, the input signal(s) can, for example, be generated by the sensor(s) and communicated from the sensor(s). In another embodiment, the input signal(s) can, for example, be generated by the in-vehicle module(s) and communicated from the in-vehicle module(s). In yet another embodiment, the input signal(s) can, for example, be generated by the sensor(s) and the in-vehicle module(s).

In one embodiment, the input signal(s) can, for example, relate to image-related data and/or audio-related data associated with the environment (e.g., environment associated with the vehicle and/or the user(s)). In one example, environment can refer to exterior environment of the vehicle. In another example, environment can refer to interior environment of the vehicle. In yet another example, environment can refer to exterior and interior environment of the vehicle.

The present disclosure contemplates the possibility that image-related data and/or audio-related data can, for example, be indicative of possibility of impact/crash, imminent impact/crash and/or occurrence of impact/crash, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure. Image-related data can, for example, be indicative of closeness (e.g., in distance) between the vehicle and at least one object (e.g., one or more another vehicles, one or more pedestrians, one or more obstructions and/or one or more structures) and/or indicative of user expression(s) (e.g., perceivably distressed user expressions). Other examples are also useful. For example, image related data can be indicative of user gestures/actions (e.g., exaggerated user actions such as flailing of arms). Audio-related data can, for example, correspond to sounds of screeching tires, crash sounds, vehicle horn sounds and/or user related distress sounds such as screaming etc. For example, the image-related data can be indicative of possibility of impact/crash, imminent impact/crash and/or occurrence of impact/crash if the vehicle is extremely near another vehicle and/or the driver's arms are visually perceivable to be flailing. Moreover, for example, the audio-related data can be indicative of possibility of impact/crash, imminent impact/crash and/or occurrence of impact/crash if sounds of screeching tires and/or sounds of the driver's screaming can be audibly perceived.

In another embodiment, the input signal(s) can, for example, relate to vehicle data.

Earlier mentioned, the in-vehicle module(s) can be configured to generate and communicate vehicle data. Vehicle data can, for example, include speed of the vehicle (e.g., speed data which can be obtained based on the speedometer), location of the vehicle (e.g., location data which can be obtained based on the Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) and/or impact/crash experienced by the vehicle (e.g., impact/crash data based on the impact detector/crash sensor/airbag electronic control unit)), pressures of all the tires of the vehicle (e.g., tire pressure data which can be obtained from the tire pressor sensors), status of all the doors (e.g., door open/close data which can be obtained from the door sensors), break/accelerator is pedal data of the vehicle (e.g., data related to usage of break/accelerator which can be obtained from the respective sensors/electronic control modules), engine data e.g., engine health related data which can be obtained from the engine sensors), proximity data (e.g., data related to proximity to any other object like another vehicle or pedestrian which can be obtained from the proximity sensors), in accordance with

zo an embodiment of the disclosure.

The present disclosure contemplates the possibility that vehicle data can, for example, be indicative of possibility of impact/crash, imminent impact/crash and/or occurrence of impact/crash, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.

For example, where a sudden drop in speed is determined based on the speed data and/or where impact/crash can be determined based on the impact/crash data, possibility of impact/crash, imminent impact/crash and/or occurrence of impact/crash can be determined.

In yet another embodiment, the input signal(s) can, for example, relate to any one of image-related data, audio-related data and vehicle data, or any combination thereof (i.e., image-related data, audio-related data and/or vehicle data).

Therefore, in the example scenario, it is appreciable that the input signal(s) received by the electronic module 200a (e.g., via the first module 202) can be processed by the electronic module 200a (e.g., via the second module 204) to determine/detect whether one or more trigger has/have occurred. Determination/detection of occurrence of the trigger event(s) can be based on the input signal(s). For example, the proximity data (e.g., data related to proximity to any other object like another vehicle or pedestrian which can be obtained from the proximity sensors) in combination with speed of the vehicle (e.g., speed data which can be obtained based on the speedometer) and/or the crash data (e.g., data indicating crash which can be obtained from the crash sensors/airbag electronic control unit) can be indicative of imminent impact and/or occurrence of impact. In another example or in combination with previous example, the second module 204 can be configured to process the input signal(s) to determine whether the vehicle is extremely near another vehicle, whether the vehicle has made contact with another vehicle, whether the driver's arms are visually perceivable to be flailing, whether sounds of screeching tires can be audibly perceived, whether sounds of the driver's screaming can be audibly perceived, whether there is a sudden drop in speed and/or there had been impact/crash, so as to determine whether the input signal(s) can be indicative of imminent impact/crash and/or occurrence of impact/crash. If the second module 204 can determine, based on the input signal(s), that there is possibility of impact/crash, that occurrence of impact/crash is imminent or has impact/crash has occurred, occurrence of the trigger event(s) can be positively determined (i.e., by the second module 204). Based on a positive determination of occurrence of the trigger event(s), the electronic module 200a (e.g., via the second module 204) can be configured to generate one or more control signal(s). The control signal(s) can be communicated in association with obtaining the collection data. For example, the electronic module 200a can be configured to communicate the control signal(s) to the sensor(s) and/or the in-vehicle module. Based on the control signal(s), the sensor(s) and/or the in-vehicle module can be configured to communicate data (e.g., image related data, audio related data and/or vehicle data) to the electronic module 200a. Data communicated based on the control signal(s) can, for example, be time-based. For example, data communicate based on the control signal(s) can be based on any one of a predetermined time-period prior to the trigger event(s), at that point in time of the trigger event(s) and a predetermined time-period after the trigger event(s), or any combination thereof (e.g., 10 minutes prior to the occurrence of the trigger event(s), at the time the trigger event(s) occurred and/or 10 minutes after the occurrence of the trigger event(s)). In one embodiment, it can be achieved by constantly capturing and retaining data from the sensor(s) and/or the in-vehicle module(s) in a temporal manner in at least one intermediary module (e.g., a circular buffer) and overwriting without the presence of the trigger event after a configurable time interval, which in turn is determined based on the concerned temporary storage. Appreciably, data communicated from the sensor(s) and/or the in-vehicle module(s) based on the control signal(s) can correspond to the aforementioned collection data. Output signal(s) corresponding to the collection data can be generated by, for example, the electronic module 200a can be communicated to the device(s) 104, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure. Collection data, communicated to the device(s) 104 by manner of the output signal(s), can be stored by the device(s) 104 and can be retrieved as desired (e.g., at a later point in time) for the purpose of, for example, analysis (e.g., for investigative purpose(s) in association with an accident).

Therefore, data storage can be facilitated in a targeted manner (e.g., only data deemed to be substantially relevant for investigation would be retained) and storage 20 burden/requirement associated with the vehicle can possibly be eased, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.

In view of the foregoing, it is appreciable that the present disclosure generally contemplates an apparatus 102 suitable for use for data communication in association with a vehicle (not shown). The vehicle can be associated with a system infrastructure (e.g., a hardware-based infrastructure which can include at least one sensor and/or at least one in-vehicle module). In this regard, it is appreciable that the vehicle can carry one or both of at least one sensor and at least one in-vehicle module (i.e., at least one of the sensor(s) and the in-vehicle module(s); the sensor(s) and/or the in-vehicle module(s)).

The apparatus 102 can include a first module 202 and a second module 204. The first module 202 can be coupled to the second module 204.

The first module 202 can be configured to receive at least one input signal (e.g., communicable from the sensor(s) and/or the in-vehicle module(s)) and the second module 204 can be configured to process the input signal(s) in a manner so as so detect/determine occurrence of at least one trigger event. When the trigger event(s) can be determined (i.e., positively determined), the second module 204 can be further configured to generate and communicate at least one control signal. Collection data associated with the trigger event(s) can be obtained based on the control signal(s). The collection data can be communicated for storage and can be retrieved for analysis. Analysis can refer to analysis of data in relation to one or both of an accident (e.g., involving the vehicle) and an accident (e.g., involving the vehicle) which may be about to occur. In this regard, the trigger event(s) can be associated with one or both of an accident (e.g., involving the vehicle) and an accident (e.g., involving the vehicle) which may be about to occur.

The apparatus 102 can, in one embodiment, further include a third module 206 which can be configured to communicate at least one output signal. The output signal(s) can, for example, correspond to/include the collection data. Moreover, the output signal(s) can be communicated to a device 104 coupled to the apparatus 102.

The device 104 can be configured to store the collection data.

In one embodiment, the apparatus 102 (e.g., a mobile device such as a Smartphone) can be carried into the vehicle by a user of the vehicle. It is contemplated that the apparatus 102 can, in this regard, be used with the vehicle system infrastructure without substantially modifying the vehicle system infrastructure (e.g., no substantial modification/no modification to the hardware-based system infrastructure of the vehicle may be necessary).

In one embodiment, the apparatus 102 (e.g., a "plug and play" type device) can be capable of being coupled to the vehicle system infrastructure without substantially modifying the vehicle system infrastructure (e.g., no substantial modification/no modification to the hardware-based system infrastructure of the vehicle may be necessary).

In one embodiment, the apparatus 102 (e.g., an existing electronic control unit or ECU having high performance computing capabilities) already connected to the existing vehicle network to receive all types of vehicle data, sensor data and user data. It is contemplated that the apparatus 102 can, in this regard, be used with the vehicle system infrastructure without substantially modifying the vehicle system infrastructure (e.g., no substantial modification/no modification to the hardware-based system infrastructure of the vehicle may be necessary).

Appreciably, as discussed earlier, the apparatus 102 (e.g., corresponding to an electronic module 200a, as discussed in the context of an example implementation 200, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure) can, for example, be carried into a vehicle (e.g., a module device which can be carried into the vehicle by a user), installed in a vehicle, by manner of, for example, "plug and play" (e.g., a "plug and play" type device) and/or already connected to the existing vehicle network to receive all types of vehicle data, sensor data and user data (e.g., an existing electronic control unit or ECU having high performance computing capabilities). In this manner, existing system/infrastructure (e.g., vehicle system/infrastructure such as the aforementioned sensor(s) and/or the in-vehicle module(s)) can possibly be utilized without the need for substantive modification (e.g., physical modification by including dedicated hardware).

The above-described advantageous aspect(s) of the apparatus 102 of the present disclosure can also apply analogously (all) the aspect(s) of a below described data communication method of the present disclosure. Likewise, all below described advantageous aspect(s) of the data communication method of the disclosure can also apply analogously (all) the aspect(s) of above described apparatus 102 of the disclosure. It is to be appreciated that these remarks apply analogously to the earlier

discussed system 100 of the present disclosure.

Referring to Fig. 3, a data communication method in association with the system 100 is shown, according to an embodiment of the disclosure. The data communication method 300 can, for example, be suitable for collection of data for investigative purpose(s), in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure. The investigative purpose(s) can, for example, be in relation with one or more accident-associated trigger events (e.g., an accident involving a vehicle, possibility of an accident involving a vehicle and/or an accident involving a vehicle which is about to occur).

The data communication method 300 can, for example, include any one of a determination step 302, a collection step 304 and an output step 306, or any combination thereof, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.

In one embodiment, the data communication method 300 can include a determination step 302, a collection step 304 and an output step 306.

With regard to the determination step 302, one or more trigger events can be detected/determined. For example, as discussed earlier, the apparatus 102 (e.g., corresponding to an electronic module 200a, as discussed in the context of an example implementation 200, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure) can be configured to receive at least one input signal and determine/detect at least one trigger event based on the input signal(s). In one embodiment, if at least one trigger event can be determined/detected based on the input signal(s), the apparatus 102 can be configured to generate at least one control signal.

With regard to the collection step 304, the collection data can be obtained based on the control signal(s). For example, the collection data can be obtained from one or both of the sensor(s) and the in-vehicle module(s) (i.e., the sensor(s) and/or the in-vehicle module(s)). In one embodiment, this can be achieved by constantly capturing and retaining data from the sensor(s) and/or the in-vehicle module(s) in a temporal manner in at least one intermediary module (e.g., a circular buffer) and overwriting without the presence of the trigger event after a configurable time interval, which in turn is determined based on the concerned temporary storage.

With regard to the output step 306, at least one output signal which can include/which can correspond to the collection data can be communicated for storage. The stored collection data can be retrieved for analysis (e.g., analysis concerning the possibility of an accident which could involve the vehicle, analysis concerning an accident involving a vehicle and/or analysis concerning an accident involving a vehicle which is about to occur) as desired (e.g., at a later point in time with reference to time of occurrence of the accident and/or time the accident which is about to occur). The output signal(s) can, for example, be received by the device(s) 104 for storage, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.

The present disclosure further contemplates a computer program (not shown) which can include instructions which, when the program is executed by a computer (not shown), cause the computer to carry out the determination step 302, the collection step 304 and/or the output step 306 as discussed with reference to the data communication method 300.

The present disclosure yet further contemplates a computer readable storage medium (not shown) having data stored therein representing software executable by a computer (not shown), the software including instructions, when executed by the computer, to carry out the determination step 302, the collection step 304 and/or the output step 306 as discussed with reference to the data communication method 300.

In view of the foregoing, it is appreciable that the present disclosure generally contemplates a data communication method 300 which can be suitable for facilitating collection of data for analysis.

zo The data communication method 300 can include: * a determination step 302 wherein at least one trigger event is determinable (e.g., by the apparatus 102) * a collection step 304, wherein collection data can be obtained based on positive determination of the trigger event(s) * an output step 306 wherein at least one output signal corresponding to the collection data can be communicated for storage and subsequent retrieval.

It should be appreciated that the embodiments described above can be combined in any manner as appropriate (e.g., one or more embodiments as discussed in the "Detailed Description" section can be combined with one or more embodiments as described in the "Summary of the Invention" section).

It should be further appreciated by the person skilled in the art that variations and combinations of embodiments described above, not being alternatives or substitutes, may be combined to form yet further embodiments.

In one example, the communication network 106 can be omitted. Communication 0.e., between the apparatus(es) 102 and the device(s) 104) can be by manner of direct coupling. Such direct coupling can be by manner of one or both of wired coupling and wireless coupling.

In another example, in one example context, the apparatus(es) 102 can, in one embodiment, be coupled to the sensor(s) and/or the in-vehicle module(s), in a manner so as to be capable of receiving data accordingly. It is appreciable that the apparatus(es) 102 may/may not be directly coupled to the sensor(s) and/or the in-vehicle module(s). In one embodiment, the apparatus(es) 102 can, for example, be directly coupled to the sensor(s) and/or the in-vehicle module(s) so as to be capable of receiving data from the sensor(s) and/or the in-vehicle module(s) directly. In another embodiment, the apparatus(es) 102 can be coupled to the sensor(s) and/or the in-vehicle module(s) via at least one intermediary module (e.g., a circular buffer), which can be capable of constantly capturing and retaining (e.g., in a temporal manner) data from the sensor(s) and/or the in-vehicle module(s) and overwriting without the presence of the trigger event after a configurable time interval, which in turn is determined based on the concerned temporary storage. In yet another embodiment, the apparatus(es) 102 can be both directly coupled and indirectly coupled (i.e., via at least one intermediary module) to the sensor(s) and the in-vehicle module(s).

In yet another example, the present disclosure contemplates the possibility of a WBB where a SaaS can be implemented. In this regard, it is appreciable that a software-based solution (e.g., a software program) analogous to the apparatus(es) 102 can be a possibility. Such a software-based solution can be installed on/carried by, for example, an existing microcontroller carried by one or more in-vehicle modules of a vehicle.

In yet an additional example, the example context as discussed earlier can be associated with a vehicle. The present disclosure contemplates that other example contexts can be possible. For example, another example context can be associated with a building/home (i.e., building/home security) where collection data can be associated with data collected in a trigger event of a security breach and/or in a trigger event of an accident (e.g., the occurrence of a fire outbreak).

In yet a further additional example, earlier mentioned, one or more output signals corresponding to the collection data can be generated by, for example, the electronic module 200a can be communicated to the device(s) 104, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure. It is contemplated that the output signal(s) (i.e., which can include/ which can correspond to the collection data) can be generated and communicated from one or both of the sensor(s) and the in-vehicle module(s), in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure. In another embodiment, the output signal(s) (i.e., which can include/ which can correspond to the collection data) can be generated and communicated from any one of the sensor(s), the in-vehicle module(s) and the electronic module 200a, or any combination thereof (i.e., the sensor(s), the in-vehicle module(s) and/or the electronic module 200a).

In the foregoing manner, various embodiments of the disclosure are described for addressing at least one of the foregoing disadvantages. Such embodiments are intended to be encompassed by the following claims, and are not to be limited to specific forms or arrangements of parts so described and it will be apparent to one skilled in the art in view of this disclosure that numerous changes and/or modification can be made, which are also intended to be encompassed by the following claims.

Claims

Claim(s) 1. An apparatus (102) suitable for use for data communication in association with a vehicle, the apparatus (102) comprising: a first module (202) configurable to receive at least one input signal, a second module (204) coupled to the first module (202), the second module (204) configurable to process the at least one input signal in a manner so as so determine at least one trigger event, wherein when at least one trigger event is determinable, the second module (204) is further configurable to generate and communicate at least one control signal, and wherein based on the at least one control signal, collection data associated with the at least one trigger event being obtainable, the collection data being communicable for storage and retrievable for analysis.
2. The apparatus (102) according to claim 1, further comprising a third module (206) capable of communicating at least one output signal corresponding to the collection data, the at least one output signal being communicable to a device (104) coupled to the apparatus (102), the device (104) being configurable to store the zo collection data.
3. The apparatus (102) according to any of the preceding claims, the at least one trigger event being associable with at least one of an accident involving the vehicle and an accident involving the vehicle about to occur.
4. The apparatus (102) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the vehicle is associable with a system infrastructure and the apparatus (102) is capable of being carried into the vehicle by a user of the vehicle, wherein the apparatus (102) is usable with the vehicle system infrastructure without substantially modifying the vehicle system infrastructure.
5. The apparatus (102) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the vehicle is associable with a system infrastructure and the apparatus (102) is capable of being coupled to the vehicle system infrastructure without substantially modifying the vehicle system infrastructure.
6. The apparatus (102) according to any of the preceding claims, the vehicle carrying at least one of at least one sensor and at least one in-vehicle module, the at least one input signal being communicable from at least one of the sensor and the in-vehicle module.
7. A data communication method (300) suitable for facilitating collection of data for analysis, the data communication method (300) comprising: a determination step (302) wherein at least one trigger event is determinable by an apparatus (102) of any of the preceding claims; a collection step (304), collection data being obtained based on positive determination of at least one trigger event; and an output step (306) wherein at least one output signal corresponding to the collection data is communicable for storage and subsequent retrieval
8. The data communication method (300) of claim 7, collection of data being associable with a vehicle, wherein the at least one trigger event is associable with at least one of an accident involving the vehicle and an accident involving the vehicle about to occur.
9. A computer program comprising instructions which, when the program is executed by a computer, cause the computer to carry out at least one of the determination step (302), the collection step (304) and the output step (306) according to the data communication method (300) of any of claims 7 and 8.
10. A computer readable storage medium having data stored therein representing software executable by a computer, the software including instructions, when executed by the computer, to carry out at least one of the determination step (302), the collection step (304) and the output step (306) according to the data communication method (300) of any of claims 7 and 8.