Collision prediction and forward airbag deployment system for autonomous driving vehicles

Abstract

In one embodiment, perception data is received perceiving a driving environment surrounding an ADV, including an object in front of the ADV. In response the perception data, a collision detection system determines a relative speed and distance between the ADV and the object based on the perception data. The collision detection system determines whether a collision between the ADV and the object isavoidable in view of the physical driving limitation associated with the ADV. The physical driving limitation may include a maximum braking capability or a maximum deceleration rate that can be applied to the ADV. If it is determined that such a collision is unavoidable, an airbag is deployed prior to the collision between the ADV and the object.

Description

technical field [0001] Embodiments of the invention generally relate to operating an autonomous vehicle. More specifically, embodiments of the invention relate to air bag deployment methods for autonomous vehicles. Background technique [0002] Vehicles operating in an autonomous mode (eg, driverless) can relieve the occupants, especially the driver, from some driving-related duties. When operating in autonomous mode, the vehicle can navigate to various locations using on-board sensors, allowing the vehicle to drive with minimal human interaction or in some cases without any passengers. [0003] In autonomous driving, motion planning and control are key operations. In conventional vehicles, a collision is detected (eg, after a collision) based on a collision-caused impact, and airbags are deployed within hundreds of milliseconds after a collision occurs. This delay in air bag deployment may not prevent driver and passenger injury. Contents of the invention [0004] An ...

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