Hierarchical control method for a motor vehicle HVAC system

A method of operation for a climate control system of a motor vehicle, where the system includes at least one control parameter that is ordinarily regulated in accordance with a normal control setting, the method comprising the steps of:

• developing override commands for said control parameter in response to detected operating conditions of said climate control system or said motor vehicle;
• categorizing the developed override commands as being related to occupant safety, vehicle safety or occupant comfort;
• assigning first-highest priority to override commands categorized as being related to occupant safety, second-highest priority to override commands categorized as being related to vehicle safety, and third-highest priority to override commands categorized as being related to occupant comfort;
• and
• regulating the control parameter in accordance with a developed override command that has been assigned the highest priority.