Computer aided derivation of vehicle modules and functions from use cases in order to create user orientated vehicle interior concepts

Trends such as autonomous driving, non-driving related activities and digitalisation are contributing to a revolution in vehicle concept design. An aspect of this is the consideration of future use cases in shaping vehicle architectures. Future user scenarios can help identify relevant use cases, from which the user needs and system requirements can be derived. The derived requirements need to be matched to vehicle functions and architectural modules that can fulfil them. However, the optimal combination of functions and modules can be difficult to identify due to the numerous possibilities. The aim of this paper is to apply a matrix-based methodology that enables the systematic matching of requirements to vehicle functions and/or modules, as well as the identification of an ideal module/function combination for all the considered requirements. An example is presented that considers a requirement specification that has been derived from predetermined user needs. The requirements are matched to suitable functions/modules and the best possible combinations are determined using the proposed matrix-based methodology. Two optimal combinations are selected, one for a vehicle in the entry level segment and the other for a premium vehicle. The results indicate it is possible to determine an optimal combination for both vehicle segments considered, as well as the substantial influence the rating parameters have on the end result. Lastly, it is shown how the results can be applied by concept designers in order to draft tailored, user-orientated interior concepts.