DESC:CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
This application is based on and derives the benefit of Indian Provisional Application IN202441000296, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.
TECHNICAL FIELD
[001] Embodiments disclosed herein relate to electric vehicles, and more particularly to an integrated digital control unit (DCU) combining functionalities of instrument cluster, vehicle control, and telematics within a single unit.
BACKGROUND
[002] Electric vehicles (EVs) have emerged as a sustainable and environment-friendly alternative to traditional internal combustion engine vehicles. Smart EV systems comprise components such as BMS, Motor Controller, tracking systems, Vehicle control units, and instrument clusters. In the current scenario, the EV Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) are using services from different suppliers for the Vehicle Control Unit (VCU), the instrument cluster and the telematics unit and can result in increased complexity of the overall vehicle architecture with respect to integration between the subsystems to enable smart capabilities. Further to this, there is no single solution for the following functionalities in the current scenario: the VCU, the instrument cluster and the telematics unit.
[003] In the current electric vehicles, the instrument cluster is located directly in front of the driver on the dashboard, the vehicle control unit is typically located within the vehicle’s electronic control system which can be found in any area within the EV, and the telematics unit is usually present within the EV’s electronics and infotainment system. When the instrument cluster, the VCU, and the telematics unit are present in different locations within the EV, the number of wiring and connections are increased, thereby leading to additional costs, and leading to an increasing single point of failure in the system and the performance of the EV. Further, accessing and diagnosing any issues in the EV can become difficult and there might be physical space constraints if the above-mentioned components are spread across various locations within the EV.
[004] The presence of distinct systems for the VCU, instrument cluster, and telematics in the existing EVs results in various drawbacks. Firstly, it incurs added expenses, encompassing the cost of individual components and the wiring harnesses that connect them. Secondly, it escalates integration complexity, necessitating more intricate processes. Additionally, this setup demands extra space within the vehicle, leading to spatial constraints. Moreover, the installation and service procedures become more time-consuming. Furthermore, the risk of single points of failure amplifies, potentially compromising system reliability. Lastly, the separate placement of the telematics unit within the vehicle may pose challenges to network connectivity, impacting communication and functionality.
[005] Hence, there is a need in the art for solutions which will overcome the above-mentioned drawback(s), among others.
OBJECTS
[006] The principal object of embodiments herein is to disclose an integrated digital control unit (DCU) that combines the functionalities of the instrument cluster, vehicle control unit, and the telematics unit within one single unit. The combination unit enables the Electric Vehicle Original Equipment Manufacturers (EV OEMs) to monitor the important parameters of the electric vehicles. Further, the integrated DCU provides a user interface which provides real-time data about the EV thereby providing an improved user experience for the user. The user can also receive alerts and notifications in real-time.
[007] Another object of embodiments herein is to disclose an integrated digital control unit which is compatible with a range of electric vehicle types and adaptable to evolving technological standards.
[008] Another object of the embodiments herein is to disclose an integrated digital control which optimizes space utilization within the electric vehicles, thereby allowing for a more efficient and compact vehicle design. The integration of telematics functionalities within a single package with the Vehicle Control Unit facilitates improved communication capabilities, enabling quicker interaction, and enhanced data exchange and supervisory control between the VCU, Instrument Cluster, and the telematics unit. The consolidated design of the integrated digital control unit significantly reduces the overall cost of the components, materials used, thereby leading to more economical and efficient electric vehicle production. The integrated DCU can be easily installed in any type of electric vehicle and offers enhanced wireless connectivity. Embodiments herein implement Artificial Intelligence and machine learning techniques thereby enabling the EVs to optimize energy usage, predict maintenance needs, and the like, by analyzing various data points in real-time. Embodiments herein use sensors and AI, and therefore can predict potential maintenance issues before they occur. Embodiments herein utilize edge computing which enables processing of data within the EV rather than transmitting the data to a centralized cloud. This allows for faster analysis of data, reducing latency, and enabling quicker decision-making.
[009] These and other aspects of the embodiments herein will be better appreciated and understood when considered in conjunction with the following description and the accompanying drawings. It should be understood, however, that the following descriptions, while indicating at least one embodiment and numerous specific details thereof, are given by way of illustration and not of limitation. Many changes and modifications may be made within the scope of the embodiments herein without departing from the spirit thereof, and the embodiments herein include all such modifications.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF FIGURES
[0010] Embodiments herein are illustrated in the accompanying drawings, throughout which like reference letters indicate corresponding parts in the various figures. The embodiments herein will be better understood from the following description with reference to the following illustratory drawings. Embodiments herein are illustrated by way of examples in the accompanying drawings, and in which:
[0011] FIG. 1 illustrates a system comprising the integrated digital control unit for electric vehicles, according to embodiments as disclosed herein;
[0012] FIG. 2 illustrates a block diagram of the integrated digital control unit, according to embodiments as disclosed herein; and
[0013] FIG. 3 illustrates a power management unit (PMU), according to embodiments as disclosed herein.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0014] The embodiments herein and the various features and advantageous details thereof are explained more fully with reference to the non-limiting embodiments that are illustrated in the accompanying drawings and detailed in the following description. Descriptions of well-known components and processing techniques are omitted so as to not unnecessarily obscure the embodiments herein. The examples used herein are intended merely to facilitate an understanding of ways in which the embodiments herein may be practiced and to further enable those of skill in the art to practice the embodiments herein. Accordingly, the examples should not be construed as limiting the scope of the embodiments herein.
[0015] The words/phrases "exemplary", “example”, “illustration”, “in an instance”, “and the like”, “and so on”, “etc.”, “etcetera” are merely used herein to mean "serving as an example, instance, or illustration." Any embodiment or implementation of the present subject matter described herein using the words/phrases "exemplary", “example”, “illustration”, “in an instance”, “and the like”, “and so on”, “etc.”, “etcetera” is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other embodiments.
[0016] The words/phrases "exemplary", “example”, “illustration”, “in an instance”, “and the like”, “and so on”, “etc.”, “etcetera”, “e.g.,”, “i.e.,” are merely used herein to mean "serving as an example, instance, or illustration." Any embodiment or implementation of the present subject matter described herein using the words/phrases "exemplary", “example”, “illustration”, “in an instance”, “and the like”, “and so on”, “etc.”, “etcetera”, “e.g.,” , “i.e.,” is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other embodiments.
[0017] Embodiments herein may be described and illustrated in terms of blocks which carry out a described function or functions. These blocks, which may be referred to herein as managers, units, modules, hardware components or the like, are physically implemented by analog and/or digital circuits such as logic gates, integrated circuits, microprocessors, microcontrollers, memory circuits, passive electronic components, active electronic components, optical components, hardwired circuits, and the like, and may optionally be driven by a firmware. The circuits may, for example, be embodied in one or more semiconductor chips, or on substrate supports such as printed circuit boards and the like. The circuits constituting a block may be implemented by dedicated hardware, or by a processor (e.g., one or more programmed microprocessors and associated circuitry), or by a combination of dedicated hardware to perform some functions of the block and a processor to perform other functions of the block. Each block of the embodiments may be physically separated into two or more interacting and discrete blocks without departing from the scope of the disclosure. Likewise, the blocks of the embodiments may be physically combined into more complex blocks without departing from the scope of the disclosure.
[0018] It should be noted that elements in the drawings are illustrated for the purposes of this description and ease of understanding and may not have necessarily been drawn to scale. For example, the flowcharts/sequence diagrams illustrate the method in terms of the steps required for understanding of aspects of the embodiments as disclosed herein. Furthermore, in terms of the construction of the device, one or more components of the device may have been represented in the drawings by conventional symbols, and the drawings may show only those specific details that are pertinent to understanding the present embodiments so as not to obscure the drawings with details that will be readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of the description herein. Furthermore, in terms of the system, one or more components/modules which comprise the system may have been represented in the drawings by conventional symbols, and the drawings may show only those specific details that are pertinent to understanding the present embodiments so as not to obscure the drawings with details that will be readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of the description herein.
[0019] The accompanying drawings are used to help easily understand various technical features and it should be understood that the embodiments presented herein are not limited by the accompanying drawings. As such, the present disclosure should be construed to extend to any modifications, equivalents, and substitutes in addition to those which are particularly set out in the accompanying drawings and the corresponding description. Usage of words such as first, second, third etc., to describe components/elements/steps is for the purposes of this description and should not be construed as sequential ordering/placement/occurrence unless specified otherwise.
[0020] The embodiments herein combine the functionalities of multi-modal tracking devices (wireless devices such as GSM, GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System), and Bluetooth Network), the instrument cluster, and the VCU within a single unit, i.e., all within a compact form factor, thereby achieving seamless communication and optimizing electric vehicle tracking, control, and instrumentation. Embodiments herein streamline data flow, reduce complexity, and maximize space efficiency within electric vehicles. Further, embodiments herein provide a user-friendly interface and provide crucial information regarding vehicle’s performance and enables EV OEMs to have control over various functions. Embodiments herein provide alerts and notifications in various scenarios. For example, embodiments herein integrate with the vehicle infotainment system and can provide notification regarding an incoming call to the user on the EV’s dashboard. Further, embodiments herein provide navigation and location services, such as suggestion of routes, traffic updates, points of interest, and the like, on the dashboard and/or a vehicle instrument console in real-time. The Integrated Digital Control Unit enables vehicles to have 2-way data communication with the cloud-based software platform to enable remove monitoring and Over the Air (OTA) management functions for OEMs and their end customers. Referring now to the drawings, and more particularly to FIGS. 1 through 3, where similar reference characters denote corresponding features consistently throughout the figures, there are shown embodiments.
[0021] FIG. 1 illustrates a system 100 comprising the integrated digital control unit 102 for electric vehicles, according to the embodiments herein. The system 100 comprises the integra digital control unit 102 communicatively coupled with a data processing unit 104. The integrated digital control unit 102 comprises an instrument cluster/a human-machine interface 106, a controller which integrates the functionalities of the Vehicle control unit 108 and the telematics unit 110, a battery management system (BMS) 112, and a motor control unit 114. The data processing unit 104 can be, for example, but not limited to, a cloud computing platform, a command center, and the like. The integrated DCU helps EVs in the manufacturing process and enhances their communication capabilities, thereby optimizing overall performance and user experience.
[0022] The instrument cluster 106 provides various information related to the electric vehicle, such as, but not limited to, vehicle metrics, such as state of charge, driving range, information related to charging status, vehicle’s energy consumption, electric motor RPM (revolutions per minute), information about heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system, over-the-air updates, and user-friendly interface for managing charging settings, scheduling charging times, and monitoring charging process. According to the embodiments herein, the instrument cluster 106 is equipped with phone connectivity features to enhance the overall driving experience. Further, the instrument cluster 106 provides navigation assistance and turn-by-turn directions through navigation applications, from the user’s device, for example, but not limited to, a smartphone. The instrument cluster provides alerts and notifications, such as, but not limited to, text message notifications, thereby alerting the drivers to incoming messages. The instrument cluster 106 provides essential vehicle information to the driver, such as, but not limited to, speed, battery state of charge (SoC), remaining range, and other customizable electric vehicle-related parameters.
[0023] The vehicle control unit (VCU) 108 can optimize the performance, efficiency, and safety of electric vehicles, thereby contributing to their overall functionality and user experience. The VCU 108 is the central control unit for electric vehicles and interfaces with the vehicle’s bus (which can be of a Controller Area Network (CAN) bus, or a LIN (Local Interconnect Network) bus). The vehicle control unit 108 provides wireless connectivity which allows the VCU 108 to wirelessly communicate with other devices, such as smartphones, tablets, in-vehicle entertainment systems, cloud-based software platform and the like. The VCU 108 supports over-the-air software updates, allowing the OEMs to improve performance, add new features, or address issues without requiring the user to visit a service center. The VCU 108 supports edge computing which allows for real-time processing of vast amounts of data from various sensors within the EV, data comprising data related to the vehicle’s status, environment, and driver inputs. Edge computing enables local processing of the data related to the EV.
[0024] The VCU 108 comprises a plurality of Input/Output (I/O) points. The I/O points connect the VCU 108 to the vehicle's display and instrument cluster 106, allowing the VCU 108 to convey information about vehicle status, warnings, and other relevant data to the driver. The I/O units serve as interfaces between the VCU 108 and the different components of the vehicle, enabling the exchange of information and commands. The I/O points are connected to sensors and actuators. The I/O points are connected to sensors throughout the vehicle provide the VCU 108 with real-time data on factors such as vehicle speed, acceleration, temperature, pressure, and other relevant parameters. The I/O points facilitate communication between the VCU 108 and other electronic control units (ECUs) within the vehicle through various communication protocols such as Controller Area Network (CAN), LIN, or UART.
[0025] The VCU 108 is connected to a plurality of sensors. The plurality of sensors can be, but not limited to, battery sensors, accelerometers, Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU) sensors, proximity sensors, temperature sensors, relays, and the like. For example, combination of the VCU 108, and an Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU) sensor in a vehicle provides a powerful solution for enhancing vehicle control, stability, and various advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS). The IMU sensor includes accelerometers (for measuring linear acceleration of the vehicle), and gyroscopes (for measuring angular velocity of the vehicle). The IMU sensor continuously monitors the vehicle's dynamics, including acceleration, deceleration, and changes in orientation. This data can be transmitted to the VCU 108, which can be used to understand the vehicle's behavior and adjust one or more control systems/modules/systems accordingly.
[0026] According to the embodiments herein, the VCU 108 is integrated with a backup battery (not shown). The backup battery serves as a secondary power source that provides energy in the event of a primary power failure. The backup battery ensures that essential vehicle control functions and critical systems continue to operate even if the main power source is temporarily disrupted, or vehicle is in switched off-condition during which the sensors and actuators can be active avoid theft or keyless entry feature for smart vehicle.
[0027] The VCU 108 enables high data-collection capabilities because of features such as edge computing, sensors, I/O points, and the like. Encryption communication protocols, such as, but not limited to, SSL 128-bit encryption, can be used to secure interactions between the telematics 110 and the cloud.
[0028] The telematics unit 110 enables monitoring of the vehicle’s status, including battery health charging status, energy usage, and performance metrics. According to the embodiments herein, the telematics unit 110 enables vehicle tracking thereby allowing remote services, such as, but not limited to, vehicle locating, remote lock/unlock, remote start, pre-conditioning of the vehicle’s interior, OTA firmware and configurations updates to the VCU 108 and other subsystems that support UDS standards and the like in most secured and safest way. The telematics unit 110 integrates wireless connectivity which allows for wireless communication between the telematics unit 110 and devices, such as smartphones, tablets, wearable devices, and the like. In an example, the telematics unit 110 integrates GSM connectivity which enables cellular communication thereby allowing the telematics unit 110 to connect to cellular networks. The telematics unit 110 integrates cloud connectivity which provides a link between the EV and the data processing unit, such as cloud-based platforms or services. The telematics unit 110 collects and logs various types of data from the vehicle’s sensors and other systems within the EV, and manages this data, including storage, processing, and organizing the data. The telematics unit 110 employs various communication protocols, such as, but not limited to, CAN, LIN, and so on, to ensure efficient data exchange.
[0029] The system, according to the embodiments herein, comprises a data processing unit 104. The integrated DCU 102 transmits data collected from the vehicle to the data processing unit 104. The data processing unit 104 can be, for example, but not limited to, cloud-based platforms. The vehicle OEMs and/or an authorized person can access data in real-time through cloud connectivity. The real-time data includes data on battery health, performance, charging status, and the like. The data processing unit 104 facilitates collaboration among the OEMs, enabling shared data insights, thereby fostering innovation and research and development in vehicle technology, standards, and advancements in the industry. The data processing unit 104 empowers the vehicle OEMs to harness the full potential of data collected from the electric vehicle subsystems including battery, motor, and sensor/control networks, and through AI/ML (Artificial Intelligence/Machine learning)-driven insights and analysis. The data processing unit facilitates delivery of value to both internal and external stakeholders.
[0030] The integrated DCU enables communication with the consumer via an application running on an electronic device, such as, but not limited to, a smartphone, a wearable device, and so on. The electronic device enables users to remotely control vehicle functions, such as locking/unlocking controls, starting/stopping the engine, checking battery status, starting/stopping the air conditioning in the vehicle, and the like. The electronic device enables the users to access real-time data and information about the vehicle, such as drive information, nearby charging and service stations, and the like.
[0031] According to the embodiments herein, the system comprises a battery management system (BMS). The BMS 112 can monitor and manage the EV battery. It includes temperature sensors placed strategically within the battery cells to detect variations in temperature. The VCU 108 can detect anomalies in temperature patterns. If the system identifies abnormal temperature (i.e., increases or deviations from expected behavior/temperature range), the VCU 108 triggers alerts or warnings to the driver or control systems. The integrated DCU comprises various interfaces, such as, but not limited to, CAN, UART (Universal Asynchronous Receiver-Transmitter), LIN, and RS-485 (Recommended Standard 485), which are utilized to facilitate communication and control among different electronic components and systems.
[0032] According to the embodiments herein, the data which is continuously collected by the VCU 108 from the plurality of sensors, for example, data related to battery status, performance, vehicle status, and the like, are transmitted to the data processing unit 104. For example, vehicle OEMs can monitor data from a plurality of vehicles in real-time and thereby offer solutions dynamically. The data processing unit 108 performs analysis of the data sent by the vehicles. The data processing unit 108 performs data analysis by using machine learning techniques, predictive analysis, etc. Further, the data processing unit 108 can derive insights, predict behavior, generate reports, and detect any potential issues. The insights that are derived from the data analysis can trigger actionable responses. For example, if the analysis detects an issue with the battery, such as thermal runaway, the system can prompt an alert on the dashboard or the User interface within the EV and advising the driver to seek maintenance of the EV Safety. Further, the analyzed data is sent back to the EV and can be displayed on the dashboard. The dashboard or the UI or the instrument console provides critical information such as battery status, range estimation, navigation directions, and alerts/notifications for the driver’s immediate attention. Further, the dashboard provides infotainment system notifications, such as incoming call notification thereby allowing the driver to manage the call without having to physically interact with their device. Further, embodiments herein utilize edge computing, thereby enabling local processing of data for smart vehicle control strategy for OEMs to include for their EV. The UI allows access to other infotainment options such as music, video, etc., and enables location services such as real-time navigation, routes suggestions, traffic updates, and the like. Vital vehicle information such as battery charge level, range estimation, energy consumption, and maintenance alerts are also displayed on the UI. The dashboard or the UI can be integrated with other EV-specific apps which can provide additional facilities such as locating nearby charging stations, scheduling charging times, etc. The dashboard can provide emergency alerts such as bad road conditions, weather updates, etc. The VCU 108 further comprises an in-built buzzer, wherein the buzzer provides critical alerts, such as, but not limited to, temperature rise, lower SOC and triggers the driver in the form of an audio alert (beep sound).
[0033] FIG. 2 illustrates a block diagram 200 of the integrated digital control unit 102, according to the embodiments herein. The integrated DCU 102 comprises a processing unit 202. The processing unit 202 can be, for example, but not limited to, one or more microcontrollers. The processing unit 202 may be implemented as a central processing unit (CPU), application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), system-on-chip (SoC), or any other suitable processing unit tailored for controlling and managing various operations within the EV. The processing unit 202 is configured to execute control algorithms, manage power distribution, monitor vehicle systems, and oversee critical functions required for optimal operation and performance of the EV. The processing unit 202 allows for efficient processing and management of various control algorithms, protocols, and tasks within the digital control unit. It handles tasks related to power management, battery control, motor control, charging control, and overall vehicle management. The processing unit 202 interfaces with other electronic components, such as a sensor unit 204. The processing unit 202 connects to various subsystems and communicates with different parts of the vehicle's electronic architecture. The processing unit 202 is connected to various components such as, but not limited to, multiple communication interfaces 206, wireless module 208, input/output units 210, voltage regulators 212 and 220, storage unit 214, wired communication module 216, and GSM/GNSS module 218. For example, the wireless module 208 can be a series of low power system on a chip microcontroller with integrated wireless and dual mode Bluetooth. The wired communication module 208 can be, for example, CAN output lines (CAN_TX RX1, CAN_TX RX2), LIN, UART, and so on. The GSM/GNSS module 218 module enables high-speed LTE connectivity. The GSM connectivity enables the DCU to maintain connectivity in areas where LTE coverage might be limited or unavailable. The GNSS connectivity provides location-based services, accurate positioning, and navigation functionalities.
[0034] The wireless module supports one or more global bands for cellular communication and technology for accurate global positioning. The wireless module enables seamless communication with various compatible peripherals designed for electric vehicles. The processing unit interfaces with the vehicle’s wired communication modules, such as a Controller Area Network (CAN) bus, LIN, and so on. The integration of the wired communication module and the processing unit enables the integrated DCU to access real-time data related to vehicle performance, battery status, charging information, and other crucial parameters. The instrument cluster utilizes a display/dashboard (o/p unit) which provides essential information to the driver, such as speed, battery state of charge (SOC), remaining range, and other customizable vehicle-related parameters. The wired communication module enables seamless integration with various vehicle systems and peripherals. The sensor unit comprises data from a plurality of sensors. As explained above, the plurality of sensors can be, but not limited to, battery sensors, accelerometers, Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU) sensors, proximity sensors, temperature sensors, and the like. For example, the IMU sensor includes accelerometers to measure linear acceleration and gyroscopes to measure angular velocity. The IMU sensor continuously monitors the vehicle's dynamics, including accelerations, decelerations, and changes in orientation. This data can be transmitted to the VCU 108, which can be used to understand the vehicle's behavior and adjust control systems accordingly. In another example, the sensor unit 214 incorporates a 3-axis accelerometer and 3-axis gyroscope for enhanced vehicle motion tracking specific to EVs.
[0035] Therefore, embodiments herein integrate multiple functionalities into a single compact module thereby optimizing space within the vehicle and simplifying installation. The seamless communication between the various components of the integrated DCU enables real-time data exchange, facilitating efficient vehicle tracking and control.
[0036] FIG. 3 illustrates a power management unit (PMU) 300 within the integrated DCU, according to the embodiments herein. The PMU 300 includes an internal battery charger 302 that charges and manages batteries, such as the internal battery 303, in the EV and controlling the charging process of the batteries. The PMU 300 includes a step-up booster 304 and a step-down converter 306. The step-up booster 304 and the step-down converter 306 are DC-DC converters integrated into the PMU 300, allowing voltage to be stepped up or stepped down as needed for different components within the system, thereby ensuring that the various devices receive the appropriate voltage levels. The PMU 300 comprises a polarity protection circuit 308 that safeguards the circuit from damage. The protection circuit is powered by an input power supply 309. The PMU 300 comprises filter circuit 310 that help in minimizing unnecessary electrical noise.
[0037] The embodiments disclosed herein can be implemented through at least one software program running on at least one hardware device and performing network management functions to control the network elements. The network elements shown in FIG. 1 include blocks which can be at least one of a hardware device, or a combination of hardware device and software module.
[0038] The embodiment disclosed herein describes an integrated digital control unit (DCU) which integrates functionalities of instrument cluster, telematics unit, and vehicle control unit within a single unit thereby optimizing space within the vehicle and simplifying the installation process. Embodiments herein enable seamless communication between wireless communication modules such as GSM, GNSS, and Bluetooth, and the VCU, thereby enabling real-time data exchange and facilitating efficient vehicle tracking and control. Embodiments herein enables the vehicle control unit to interface with a wide range of vehicle systems and peripherals.
[0039] Therefore, it is understood that the scope of the protection is extended to such a program and in addition to a computer readable means having a message therein, such computer readable storage means contain program code means for implementation of one or more steps of the method, when the program runs on a server or mobile device or any suitable programmable device. The method is implemented in at least one embodiment through or together with a software program written in e.g., Very high speed integrated circuit Hardware Description Language (VHDL) another programming language, or implemented by one or more VHDL or several software modules being executed on at least one hardware device. The hardware device can be any kind of portable device that can be programmed. The device may also include means which could be e.g., hardware means like e.g., an ASIC, or a combination of hardware and software means, e.g. an ASIC and an FPGA, or at least one microprocessor and at least one memory with software modules located therein. The method embodiments described herein could be implemented partly in hardware and partly in software. Alternatively, the invention may be implemented on different hardware devices, e.g., using a plurality of CPUs.
[0040] The foregoing description of the specific embodiments will so fully reveal the general nature of the embodiments herein that others can, by applying current knowledge, readily modify and/or adapt for various applications such specific embodiments without departing from the generic concept, and, therefore, such adaptations and modifications should and are intended to be comprehended within the meaning and range of equivalents of the disclosed embodiments. It is to be understood that the phraseology or terminology employed herein is for the purpose of description and not of limitation. Therefore, while the embodiments herein have been described in terms of embodiments, those skilled in the art will recognize that the embodiments herein can be practiced with modification within the scope of the embodiments as described herein.
,CLAIMS:CLAIMS
We claim:
1. An integrated digital control unit (DCU) (102) in a vehicle comprising:
an instrument cluster (106), a vehicle control unit (108), and a telematics unit (110),
wherein the DCU (102) is configured to monitor a plurality of parameters related to the vehicle, a battery management system (BMS) (112), and a motor control unit (114).
2. The DCU as claimed in claim 1, wherein the instrument cluster (106) is configured to provide information including vehicle metrics, charging status, energy consumption, navigation assistance, and alerts to the driver.
3. The DCU as claimed in claim 1, wherein the vehicle control unit (108) is configured to support over-the-air software updates and edge computing for real-time processing of data.
4. The DCU as claimed in claim 1, wherein the telematics unit (110) is configured to enable vehicle tracking, remote services, wireless communication, and cloud connectivity.
5. The DCU as claimed in claim 1, wherein the data processing unit (104) is configured to facilitate real-time data access, collaboration among electric vehicle OEMs, and AI/ML-driven insights and analysis.
6. The DCU as claimed in claim 1, wherein the integrated DCU (102) is configured to enable communication with users via electronic devices for remote control of Electric Vehicle (EV) functions and access to real-time data.
7. The DCU as claimed in claim 1, wherein the DCU (102) further comprises a power management unit (300), wherein the power management unit (300) comprises:
an internal battery charger (302);
a step-up booster (304) and a step-down converter (306);
a polarity protection circuit (308); and
a filter circuit (310) for minimizing electrical noise.