Navigation mode, function

P82.87-9451-79

P82.87-8619-79

Function requirements for navigation mode in general

 Status circuit 30g ON

 Transport mode not active

General navigation mode

The navigation module is integrated in the COMAND controller unit. The navigation system includes the following functionalities:

 Position determination

 Destination entry

 Route calculation

 Display of navigation maps

 Intersection zoom

 Visual driving instructions in form of pictograms

 Acoustic driving instructions

The location and direction of movement of the vehicle are continuously determined with the aid of the navigation system.

After entering or calling up a destination location, route calculation starts. Various options can be selected for calculating the route, depending on the model year and the national version, such as:

 "Fast route"

 "Dynamic route"

 "Eco Route"

 "Short route"

 Avoid options (e.g. "Avoid area", "Avoid tunnel", "Avoid ferries", "Avoid toll sticker roads")

If observance of the options is not possible, then the options set are ignored for the sections in question and a message is displayed and signaled audibly. The set options can be displayed and changed at any time.

Once calculated, the route is displayed using pictograms on the Audio/COMAND display and this information is also issued as an acoustic notification: "The route is being calculated".

If the vehicle deviates from the route, the new route is re-calculated. If the recalculated values are plausible for the navigation system, then the modified route is displayed.

 Dynamic route guidance (with "Dynamic route" or "Eco route"): Dynamic route guidance provides an alternative route if the calculated route has a sufficiently long traffic jam or a road closure on it.

The navigation system is equipped with lists and map data on points of interest (e.g. restaurant, gas station, parking spot), that can be selected as a destination or a stopover.

 Routes (except CODE 498 (Japan version)) or destinations can be transmitted to the vehicle by email via the Internet using the Mercedes-Benz gateway application and taken over into the navigation system.

 In vehicles with CODE 348 (Emergency call/Assist system) or CODE 359 (TELEAID emergency call system), destination entries or points of interest can be supplied to the COMAND controller unit navigation module from the Service Center.

The navigation system can be operated with the following components:

 Audio/COMAND control panel

 Control panels on the COMAND controller unit

 Left multifunction steering wheel button group and right multifunction steering wheel button group

 Voice control system (VCS [SBS])

As of 01.03.2013 the COMAND controller unit receives the control signals from the left and right multifunction steering wheel button groups via the following route:

 Steering wheel electronics

 Steering LIN

 Steering column module control unit

 Chassis CAN 1

 Front SAM control unit with fuse and relay module

 Chassis CAN 2

 Instrument cluster

 Interior CAN

Up to 28.02.2013 the COMAND controller unit receives the control signals from the left and right multifunction steering group button groups via the following route:

 Steering wheel electronics

 Steering LIN

 Steering column module control unit

 Chassis CAN

 Instrument cluster

 Interior CAN

When entered using the Audio/COMAND control panel, the control signals are sent via the telematics CAN to the COMAND controller unit.

When entries are made via the control panels on the COMAND controller unit, the control signals are processed within the unit.

When operating with the voice control system, voice input takes place using the hands-free system microphone. Words spoken into the hands-free system microphone are converted into an electrical signal and transferred via a direct line to the COMAND controller unit.

 For the voice control system of the navigation, in particular for destination entry, additional name lists are available in the system. There are also additional name lists, e.g. for the following information:

 Names for selected cities/towns on the data medium

 Street names for all locations

 Town center

The navigation function consists of the following subfunctions:

 General Global Positioning System (GPS) position finding

 GPS position finding function sequence

 General information on basic position finding

 Basic position finding function sequence

 Calibration

 Recalibration

 General information on route calculation

 Destination-oriented navigation function sequence

 General information on dynamic route guidance

 Function sequence, dynamic route guidance (except CODE 494 (USA version), except CODE 498 (Japan version) and except CODE B54(Live Traffic Information))

 Function sequence, Vehicle Information and Communication System (VICS) via FM multiplexer (with CODE 498 (Japan version))

 Function sequence, VICS dynamic route guidance (with CODE 498 (Japan version), Dealer Option)

 Function sequence, dynamic route guidance with Real Time Traffic Data (RTTD) (with CODE 494 (USA version) and CODE 536 (SIRIUS satellite radio))

 Function sequence, dynamic route guidance with real-time traffic data via the telematics services communications module (with CODE B54(Live Traffic Information))

 Map function

General Global Positioning System (GPS) position finding

The GPS is a satellite-based positioning system. It is available worldwide. GPS position finding is irretrievable after vehicle transport (e.g. by train or ferry or after towing). Recalculating the GPS position (after satellite reception has been interrupted) can take several minutes (up to 5 minutes during initial commissioning). The accuracy of the position finding and the actual calculation is essentially based on the measurement of the runtimes of the signals transmitted synchronously by the various satellites. A vital precondition is the synchronicity of the clocks in the satellites and in the receiver. To ensure synchronicity, the receiver is equipped with an automatic time correction that is possible thanks to the satellite signals.

Additional function requirement for GPS position finding

 Signals available from at least three GPS satellites

GPS position finding function sequence

The GPS signals are received by the GPS receiver integrated in the COMAND controller unit directly from the multifunction antenna or, in vehicles with CODE 348 (Emergency call/Assist system) or CODE 359 (TELEAID emergency call system), by the multifunction antenna via the global positioning system antenna splitter. The GPS signals are used by the COMAND controller unit to calculate the current vehicle position (receiver). The vehicle's direction of travel is also determined using the sequence of GPS calculated locations.

 Since GPS operates in the gigahertz range and the signals are weak, reception interference can occur as a result of the following events:

 Atmospheric interference, e.g. inclement weather, water vapor, fog

 Multi-path reception due to signal reflections, e.g. from building walls

 Signal blocking, e.g. in built-up areas, in tunnels, from high buildings or trees

General information on basic position finding

Navigation can be continued without a GPS signal using basic position finding. A possible defect, (e.g. in the multifunction antenna) is not immediately noticeable.

Basic position finding runs parallel to GPS position finding. For basic position finding the COMAND controller unit requires the following information:

 Wheel speed and wheel rotation direction (forwards or backwards)

 Gyro sensor (angular velocity of rotation, for determining the vehicle orientation)

Basic position finding function sequence

For basic position finding, the COMAND controller unit requires signals from the following components:

 Gyro sensor, integrated in the COMAND controller unit, for determining vehicle orientation (compass direction)

 Electronic Stability Program control unit (except CODE 233 (DISTRONIC PLUS), except model 218.374) or Premium Electronic Stability Program control unit (with CODE 233 (DISTRONIC PLUS) or model 218.374), wheel speed signals including direction of travel

The signals of the steering angle sensor can also flow into the position finding.

The data from the gyro sensor integrated in the COMAND controller unit is forwarded within the COMAND controller unit.

The COMAND controller unit receives the wheel speed signals from the Electronic Stability Program control unit (except CODE 233 (DISTRONIC PLUS), except model 218.374) or the Premium Electronic Stability Program control unit (with CODE 233 (DISTRONIC PLUS) or model 218.374) via the following route:

 Chassis CAN 1 (as of 01.03.2013) or chassis CAN (up to 28.02.2013)

 Front SAM control unit with fuse and relay module

 Interior CAN

The COMAND controller unit receives the steering wheel angle signal from the steering angle sensor via the following route:

 Steering column module control unit

 Chassis CAN 1 (as of 01.03.2013) or chassis CAN (up to 28.02.2013)

 Front SAM control unit with fuse and relay module

 Interior CAN

The current vehicle position is calculated from the signals that are received (longitude and latitude).

The basic position finding calculation is performed approx. once per second.

 Location errors in position finding, rolling backwards with "circuit 15 OFF" (ignition switched off) or transport of the vehicle falsify the basic position finding.

In both instances the deviation is automatically corrected by the COMAND controller unit's integrated navigation processor upon reception of GPS data.

Calibration

The calibration following a tire replacement is performed automatically.

Recalibration

Because of the tire abrasion, a constant recalibration of the tire circumference is required.

This recalibration is carried out automatically, and uses the difference between the calculated and actually traveled distance between two turning points that has been determined using map-based position finding.

General information on route calculation

Route calculation is accomplished using the options set to the best possible extent. If observance of the options is not possible, then the options set are ignored for the sections in question and a message is displayed and signaled audibly.

The set criteria and options can be displayed and changed at any time.

After a successful calculation, the route is displayed on the map and this information is then relayed acoustically - "Route is being calculated".

Destination-oriented navigation function sequence

The integrated navigation processor continuously compares the route calculation data with the position finding data and uses the data to deduce measures for further destination-oriented navigation.

The route guidance is carried out by outputting visual and acoustic information and is divided up into the following areas:

 Map route guidance

 Destination-oriented navigation through driving lane recommendations

 Route guidance by means of voice output

Map route guidance

Signals for visual depiction of the route guidance (map navigation) are generated by the COMAND controller unit and sent to the audio/COMAND display via an LVDS line.

The Audio/COMAND display is switched on via the telematics CAN by the COMAND controller unit.

Destination-oriented navigation through driving lane recommendations

For certain turnoff situations on multiple-land exit points (e.g. freeway intersection) driving lane recommendations are shown in the bottom line. In addition, when a turnoff recommendation is given, the distance to the actual turnoff point is also displayed by means of a bar graph. The lanes have arrows assigned to them, which indicate on which lane the destination can be reached or the best way to reach it.

With day design, the following colors are valid for representation in the Audio/COMAND display:

Midnight blue: The best or recommended lane.

Light blue: The lane is correct but another lane change will soon be required.

Gray: The lane will not take you to the destination.

 The instrument cluster only displays the midnight blue arrows.

Route guidance by means of voice output

Route guidance by means of voice output is an assistance function that assists the driver without distracting him from the traffic. Voice is output with the selected system language.

The destination-oriented navigation of the navigation system is supported by voice outputs with the following information:

 Directional instructions

 Name of the next road to turn into

Further voice messages occur, at the start of route calculation, for example, when an intermediate destination has been reached, or when the destination has been reached.

During dynamic route guidance, additional voice messages are issued due to traffic messages affecting the route. Special information is issued in some instances by voice output, for example:

 Destination lies in area where driving is only possible to a limited extent

 Route via ferry

The COMAND controller unit's navigation processor links word segments during a voice output to form complete instructions or information.

 When voice output is active the announcement volume can be adjusted using the following components:

 Volume controller of COMAND controller unit

 The + and - button for setting specific functions and volume control (S111s1) of the right multifunction steering wheel button group

In vehicles without CODE 810 (Sound system) or CODE 811 (Advanced sound system), the voice output is forwarded to the speaker system by the COMAND controller unit.

In vehicles with CODE 810 (Sound system) or CODE 811 (Advanced sound system) the COMAND controller unit transmits the voice output via MOST to the sound system amplifier control unit. The sound system amplifier control unit amplifies the signals and forwards them to the speaker system.

General information on dynamic route guidance

With dynamic route guidance ("Dynamic route" or "Eco route") the current traffic situation is taken into account when appropriate traffic data is received. The traffic data recorder decodes the traffic information and forwards it internally to the navigation processor upon request.

The navigation processor makes the decision whether the route should be changed. If necessary, a message that the route should be changed is output via the speaker system.

Function sequence, dynamic route guidance (except CODE 494 (USA version), except CODE 498 (Japan version) and except CODE B54(Live Traffic Information))

The incoming information about the traffic situation can be received by the Radio Data System/Traffic Message Channel (RDS/TMC) function via FM radio or digital radio (DAB) (with CODE 537 (Digital radio (DAB))) if an appropriate station has been selected.

The FM receiver in the COMAND controller unit receives the traffic messages from the following antenna amplifiers and transfers them to the traffic data recorder in the COMAND controller unit:

 FM 1, AM, CL [ZV] and KEYLESS-GO antenna amplifier and FM 2 and DAB antenna amplifier (model 218.3)

 Rear window antenna amplifier 1 and FM 2, DAB and TV antenna amplifier (model 218.9)

On vehicles with CODE 537 (Digital radio (DAB)), traffic messages received via DAB band III are forwarded by the FM 2 and DAB antenna amplifier (model 218.3) or by the FM 2, DAB, and TV antenna amplifier (model 218.9) to the COMAND controller unit via the following route:

 TV antenna splitter (model 218.9 with CODE 865 (TV tuner))

 Digital Audio Broadcasting control unit

 MOST

Function sequence, Vehicle Information and Communication System (VICS) via FM multiplexer (with CODE 498 (Japan version))

The driver is provided with vital information by the VICS on the current traffic situation. Traffic impairments and traffic jams are shown on the map, however they are not incorporated into the dynamic route guidance. The radio antenna signal travels to the COMAND controller unit as follows:

 Antenna structure in the rear window

 FM 1, AM, CL and KEYLESS-GO antenna amplifier (model 218.3) or rear window antenna amplifier 1 (model 218.9)

The VICS information is processed in the FM multiplexer integrated into the COMAND controller unit. The prepared VICS information is displayed on the Audio/COMAND display via the LVDS line.

Function sequence, VICS dynamic route guidance (with CODE 498 (Japan version), Dealer Option)

Dynamic route guidance requires the VICS control unit. The VICS control unit contains both the receiver and the antenna. The antenna communicates with the VICS beacons (transmitter masts) installed at the roadside, which transmit microwave signals within a 2.5 Gigahertz reception range or infrared signals. Received signals are transmitted directly to the COMAND controller unit where they are decoded. The traffic messages are stored and relayed to the navigation processor.

The traffic data recorder decodes the traffic information and forwards this to the navigation processor upon request.

Function sequence, dynamic route guidance with Real Time Traffic Data (RTTD) (with CODE 494 (USA version) and CODE 536 (SIRIUS satellite radio))

RTTD is real time traffic data emitted via the "Sirius" satellite radio provider, the reception and processing of which is enabled by the Satellite Digital Audio Radio (SDAR) control unit. The real time traffic data contain accident and traffic jam messages as well as traffic flow information.

The real-time traffic data is available around the major cities in the USA, and is transmitted every 5 minutes.

The Satellite Digital Audio Radio (SDAR) control unit receives the real-time traffic data via a direct line from the multifunction antenna and makes it available to the navigation system of the COMAND controller unit via the MOST.

The COMAND controller unit uses the data to calculate alternative routes and displays them on the Audio/COMAND display via an LVDS line.

Function sequence, dynamic route guidance with real-time traffic data via the telematics services communications module (with CODE B54(Live Traffic Information))

The real time traffic data contains accident and traffic jam messages and traffic flow information, and is available nationwide in the participating countries.

The telematics services communication module receives the real-time traffic data via the emergency call system antenna and transmits it to the COMAND controller unit. The COMAND controller unit uses the data to calculate alternative routes and displays them on the Audio/COMAND display via an LVDS line.

The telematics services communications module requests position data from the COMAND controller unit and transmits it to the service provider via the emergency call system antenna on request. The telematics services communications module then contributes to collating the traffic information from which the dynamic route guidance then benefits again.

Map function

Map display is always controlled by the COMAND controller unit. The following display functions are supported:

 Destination-oriented navigation map

 Positioning map

 Route map

 Scrollable map

 Destination entry map