System and method for evaluating vehicle powertrain and chassis mass

Abstract

This disclosure provides "systems and methods for evaluating the quality of a vehicle powertrain and chassis". One method includes: performing one or more performance-based tasks while an automated vehicle moves through a grouping environment; evaluating the performance of one or more components of the automated vehicle; determining whether one or more results of the evaluation exceed the performance-based threshold; and transmitting an alarm in response to the evaluation exceeding the performance-based threshold.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to the evaluation of one or more characteristics of a vehicle. More specifically, this disclosure relates to the evaluation of the vehicle powertrain and chassis quality of one or more components of a vehicle. Background Technology

[0002] The statements in this section are provided only as background information in connection with this disclosure and may not constitute prior art.

[0003] As vehicle formations evolve towards fully autonomous transport, it becomes increasingly important for vehicles to autonomously monitor the performance of one or more components. However, current systems rely on human operators to assist in vehicle inspections. Manual vehicle inspection is a time-consuming and often inaccurate method for assessing problems with many vehicle systems and / or components. This disclosure addresses these and other problems related to assessing vehicle systems and / or components associated with a vehicle. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This section provides a general overview of this disclosure and is not a full disclosure of its entire scope or all its features.

[0005] This disclosure provides a method comprising: performing one or more performance-based tasks by an automated vehicle while the automated vehicle is moving through a troop environment; evaluating the performance of one or more components of the automated vehicle in response to performing the one or more performance-based tasks; determining whether one or more results of the evaluation exceed the performance-based threshold; and transmitting an alarm in response to the evaluation exceeding the performance-based threshold; wherein the alarm is a service request; wherein the one or more performance-based tasks include at least one of chassis-based testing, acceleration-based testing, environment-based testing, usage-based testing, or a combination thereof; wherein the one or more components of the automated vehicle include powertrain components, chassis systems, or a combination thereof, and wherein the evaluation of the performance of the one or more components is performed inside the automated vehicle, outside the automated vehicle, or a combination thereof; wherein one or more sensors of the automated vehicle are configured to monitor power variation, torque variation, vehicle power, one or more torque capabilities, temperature, etc. The method evaluates the performance of one or more components of the automated vehicle by means of: behavior, vibration variation, acceleration variation, accuracy of torque control, accuracy of engine speed control, accuracy of electric motor control, torque control capability, engine speed control capability, electric motor control capability, maximum performance capability, performance output, battery charging rate, battery discharging rate, overall energy consumption level, or a combination thereof; wherein each of one or more sensors of the automated vehicle and one or more sensors of the infrastructure system is configured to evaluate the performance of one or more components of the automated vehicle by performing perception analysis of the automated vehicle, identifying vehicle fluid levels, identifying oil leaks, identifying travel range associated with the one or more components, monitoring one or more responses associated with the one or more components, or a combination thereof; and the method further includes: performing one or more additional performance-based tasks in response to the evaluation exceeding the performance-based threshold; and evaluating the performance of the one or more components in response to the completion of the one or more additional performance-based tasks.

[0006] This disclosure provides a system comprising: an infrastructure system configured to monitor the movement of an automated vehicle through a convoy environment; and the automated vehicle configured to: perform one or more performance-based tasks as the automated vehicle moves through the convoy environment; evaluate the performance of one or more components of the automated vehicle in response to performing the one or more performance-based tasks; determine whether one or more results of the evaluation exceed the performance-based threshold; and transmit an alarm in response to the evaluation exceeding the performance-based threshold; wherein the alarm is a service request; wherein the one or more components of the automated vehicle include powertrain components, chassis systems, or combinations thereof, and wherein the evaluation of the performance of the one or more components is performed inside the automated vehicle, outside the automated vehicle, or a combination thereof; wherein one or more sensors of the automated vehicle are configured to monitor power changes, torque changes, vehicle power, one or more torque capabilities, temperature behavior, vibration changes, acceleration changes, and torque. The performance of one or more components of the automated vehicle is evaluated by assessing the accuracy of control, the accuracy of engine speed control, the accuracy of electric motor control, the capability of torque control, the capability of engine speed control, the capability of electric motor control, maximum performance capability, performance output, battery charging, battery discharging rate, overall energy consumption level, or a combination thereof; wherein each of one or more sensors of the automated vehicle and one or more sensors of the infrastructure system is configured to evaluate the performance of one or more components of the automated vehicle by performing perception analysis of the automated vehicle, identifying vehicle fluid levels, identifying oil leaks, identifying travel range associated with the one or more components, monitoring one or more responses associated with the one or more components, or a combination thereof; and wherein the automated vehicle is further configured to: perform one or more additional performance-based tasks in response to the evaluation exceeding the performance-based threshold; and evaluate the performance of the one or more components in response to the completion of the one or more additional performance-based tasks.

[0007] This disclosure provides one or more non-transitory computer-readable media storing processor-executable instructions, which, when executed by at least one processor, cause the at least one processor to: perform one or more performance-based tasks by the automated vehicle as it moves through a grouped environment; evaluate the performance of one or more components of the automated vehicle in response to performing the one or more performance-based tasks; determine whether one or more results of the evaluation exceed the performance-based threshold; and transmit a service request in response to the evaluation exceeding the performance-based threshold; wherein the one or more performance-based tasks include at least one of chassis-based testing, acceleration-based testing, environment-based testing, usage-based testing, or a combination thereof; wherein the one or more components of the automated vehicle include powertrain components, chassis systems, or a combination thereof, and wherein the evaluation of the performance of the one or more components is performed inside the automated vehicle, outside the automated vehicle, or a combination thereof; wherein one or more sensors of the automated vehicle are configured to monitor power changes, torque changes, vehicle power... The performance of one or more components of the automated vehicle is evaluated by means of one or more torque capabilities, temperature behavior, vibration variations, acceleration variations, accuracy of torque control, accuracy of engine speed control, accuracy of electric motor control, capability of torque control, capability of engine speed control, capability of electric motor control, maximum performance capability, performance output, battery charging, battery discharging rate, overall energy consumption level, or a combination thereof; wherein each of one or more sensors of the automated vehicle and one or more sensors of the infrastructure system is configured to evaluate the performance of one or more components of the automated vehicle by performing perception analysis of the automated vehicle, identifying vehicle fluid levels, identifying oil leaks, identifying travel range associated with the one or more components, monitoring one or more responses associated with the one or more components, or a combination thereof; and the at least one processor is further caused to: perform one or more additional performance-based tasks in response to the evaluation exceeding the performance-based threshold; and evaluate the performance of the one or more components in response to the completion of the one or more additional performance-based tasks.

[0008] Further applicability will become apparent from the description provided herein. It should be understood that the descriptions and specific examples are intended for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of this disclosure. Attached Figure Description

[0009] To better understand this disclosure, various forms of the disclosure will now be described by way of example with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0010] Figure 1An exemplary system for automated vehicle grouping according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure is shown;

[0011] Figure 2 Another exemplary system for automated vehicle grouping according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure is shown;

[0012] Figure 3 One or more embodiments of the present disclosure are shown. Figure 1 and Figure 2 The system shown is used to group exemplary vehicles;

[0013] Figure 4 This is a flowchart illustrating an exemplary method for evaluating the quality of a powertrain and / or chassis associated with a vehicle, according to one or more embodiments of this disclosure;

[0014] Figure 5 This is another flowchart illustrating an exemplary method for evaluating the quality of a vehicle-related powertrain and / or chassis according to one or more embodiments of this disclosure; and

[0015] Figure 6 This is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary computer system according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0016] The accompanying drawings described herein are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of this disclosure in any way. Detailed Implementation

[0017] The following description is merely exemplary in nature and is not intended to limit this disclosure, its application, or its uses. It should be understood that throughout the drawings, corresponding reference numerals indicate the same or corresponding parts and features.

[0018] The one or more examples described herein provide a means for evaluating the quality of one or more components of an automated vehicle, specifically the vehicle powertrain and chassis. More specifically, the behavior of the overall automated vehicle, its powertrain components, and / or chassis components is analyzed while the automated vehicle is under autonomous control, which provides (e.g., the autonomous control of the automated vehicle) each component within acceptable ranges / expected variations during and / or after the manufacture of the automated vehicle. In one or more examples, a suite of external vehicle sensors and / or an infrastructure-based sensor suite are used. It should be understood that one or more embodiments provide a fully automated means for evaluating any problems with vehicle systems and / or vehicle components, and therefore do not rely on human operators to perform any aspect of the evaluation. Thus, in various examples, a more accurate and time-saving process is provided for evaluating vehicle systems and / or components associated with an automated vehicle, particularly processes related to the quality of one or more components of the automated vehicle's powertrain and chassis.

[0019] Figure 1 A schematic block diagram of an Automated Vehicle Grouping (AVM) system 100 is shown. In one or more examples, the AVM system 100 groups one or more vehicles (e.g., vehicle 102) that are traveling at low speeds. However, it should be understood that the AVM system 100 can group one or more vehicles that are traveling at any speed. It should also be understood that the AVM system 100 can group semi-autonomous vehicles and / or fully autonomous vehicles.

[0020] AVM system 100 typically includes vehicle 102, vehicle manufacturing cloud system 104, vehicle delivery manager cloud system 106, vehicle customer web portal account cloud system 108, and infrastructure system 110. Vehicle manufacturing cloud system 104 serves as a central cloud system for managing and / or facilitating any manufacturing processes associated with vehicle 102. Vehicle manufacturing cloud system 104 is configured to communicate wirelessly with vehicle delivery manager cloud system 106 and / or infrastructure system 110. Vehicle manufacturing cloud system 104 is also configured to communicate wirelessly with vehicle 102.

[0021] The vehicle manufacturing cloud system 104 may include an infrastructure-side AVM algorithm 112. However, it should be understood that the infrastructure system 110 may also include an infrastructure-side AVM algorithm 112, such as... Figure 2As shown. The infrastructure-side AVM algorithm 112 processes state information associated with at least one vehicle 102 among one or more vehicles. It should be understood that, in one or more embodiments, the infrastructure-side AVM algorithm 112 processes state information associated with each of the one or more vehicles (e.g., vehicle 102). The vehicle manufacturing cloud system 104 is configured to cause the infrastructure system 110 to monitor the progress of the vehicles (e.g., vehicle 102) as they move through a marshalling environment. For example, a marshalling environment may represent a factory marshalling setup, an automated charging setup, a depot marshalling setup, an underground parking setup, etc. As an example, a factory marshalling setup may include an instance in which newly manufactured vehicles move through a production line off-line test at a vehicle assembly plant via overhead visual sensing (e.g., via a set of infrastructure sensors 204). As another example, an automated charging setup may include an instance in which vehicles are correctly assigned to an automated charging mode located outdoors or indoors. As yet another example, a depot marshalling setup may include an instance in which a fleet of commercial vehicles moves through warehouses and depots for automated loading and / or handling of goods. As an additional example, underground parking setups may include instances where vehicles move through underground or covered parking environments with potentially inconsistent communication networks, such as global navigation satellite systems.

[0022] The vehicle manufacturing cloud system 104 is also configured to cause the infrastructure system 110 to communicate with one or more vehicles. For example, the vehicle manufacturing cloud system 104 utilizes the infrastructure-side AVM algorithm 112 to send instructions to the infrastructure system 110 and / or process information received from the infrastructure system 110. The vehicle manufacturing cloud system 104 is also configured to cause the vehicle delivery manager cloud system 106 to facilitate the delivery of one or more vehicles (e.g., vehicle 102) to various locations. For example, the vehicle manufacturing cloud system 104 utilizes the infrastructure-side AVM algorithm 112 to send instructions to the vehicle delivery manager cloud system 106 and / or process information received from the vehicle delivery manager cloud system 106.

[0023] The vehicle manufacturing cloud system 104 is also configured to communicate directly with one or more vehicles to cause the one or more vehicles to start, stop, or pause their progress through the formation environment. The vehicle manufacturing cloud system 104 is also configured to control the formation speed of one or more vehicles as they travel through (e.g., traverse) the formation environment. For example, the vehicle manufacturing cloud system 104 utilizes the infrastructure-side AVM algorithm 112 to send instructions to vehicle 102 and / or process information received from vehicle 102.

[0024] Infrastructure system 110 includes sensor components 114, wireless communication components 116, a multi-access edge computing (MEC) system 118, and one or more traffic lights 120. Typically, and as described herein, infrastructure system 110 is configured to monitor and / or detect the operational behavior (e.g., operational characteristics or conditions) of each of the one or more vehicles as they move through a grouped environment.

[0025] In one or more embodiments, infrastructure system 110 is configured to store anticipated behaviors associated with any vehicle configured to move through a marshalling environment. For example, the anticipated behaviors are stored in a database (not shown) associated with infrastructure system 110. As another example, the database may be located internally or externally relative to infrastructure system 110. As an example, the stored anticipated behaviors may represent historical data used as a basis, through which one or more analyses can be performed to determine one or more information data points and / or statistics associated with the operational behavior of each of the one or more vehicles, as described herein. As another example, the stored anticipated behaviors may relate to the anticipated behaviors of vehicles near a specific workstation in one or more workstations associated with the marshalling environment.

[0026] In one or more examples, the infrastructure-side AVM algorithm 112 is configured to perform one or more analyses to support the detection, identification, and / or verification of operational behaviors corresponding to each of the one or more vehicles. In one or more examples, the infrastructure-side AVM algorithm 112 is configured to verify the operational behaviors corresponding to each of the one or more vehicles based on whether the identified operational behaviors detected for each of the one or more vehicles match the expected behavior of the vehicle at a specific location within the grouping environment. In one or more embodiments, and where the identified operational behaviors of each of the one or more vehicles match the expected behavior of the vehicle at a specific location within the grouping environment, the infrastructure system 110 may cause each of the one or more vehicles to move from one workstation in the grouping environment to another workstation in the grouping environment. However, in another or more embodiments, and where the identified operational behaviors of each of the one or more vehicles do not match the expected behavior of the vehicle at a specific location within the grouping environment, the infrastructure system 110 may transmit one or more operational commands to each of the one or more vehicles, enabling real-time dynamic monitoring of further operational behaviors of each of the one or more vehicles. In addition, if the identified operational behavior of each of the one or more vehicles does not match the expected behavior of the vehicle at a specific location within the grouping environment, the infrastructure system 110 may cause each of the one or more vehicles to move to the repair shop, in addition to transmitting one or more operational commands to each of the one or more vehicles.

[0027] It should be understood that the MEC system 118 is configured to support communication between the wireless communication component 116 and the vehicle 102. However, it should also be understood that the MEC system 118 is also configured to support communication between the wireless communication component 116 and any of the vehicle manufacturing cloud system 104, the vehicle delivery manager cloud system 106, and / or the vehicle customer web portal account cloud system 108. For example, the wireless communication component 116 may utilize GPS, Wi-Fi, satellite, 3G / 4G / 5G, and / or Bluetooth. ® To communicate with one or more vehicles.

[0028] The wireless communication component 116 also communicates with the sensor component 114, which is configured to communicate with and / or manage the set of infrastructure sensors 204, as described herein. In one or more examples, the sensor component 114 is also configured to perform one or more positioning functions associated with grouping one or more vehicles, such as, but not limited to, sensing, path planning, detection, control, and / or receiving and analyzing responses from each of the one or more vehicles.

[0029] The wireless communication component 116 also communicates with the traffic light 120. For example, when one or more vehicles are grouped through a grouping environment, the wireless communication component 116 can cause the traffic light 120 to guide the traffic of one or more vehicles. It should be understood that the infrastructure system 110 can forward instructions received from the vehicle manufacturing cloud system 104 to the vehicle 102. However, it should also be understood that the infrastructure system 110 can send instructions directly to the vehicle 102, for example, by utilizing the MEC system 118.

[0030] Vehicle 102 includes a vehicle-side AVM algorithm 122, a wireless transmission module 124, a vehicle central gateway module 126, a vehicle infotainment system 128, one or more vehicle sensors 130, a vehicle battery 132, a vehicle GNSS 134, a vehicle navigation map system 136, and a controller area network (CAN) vehicle bus 138. The wireless transmission module 124 may be a transmission control unit (TCU) and / or may be supported by a telematics-enabled subsystem. The wireless transmission module 124 includes one or more sensors configured to collect data and transmit signals to other components of vehicle 102. One or more sensors of the wireless transmission module 124 may include a vehicle speed sensor (not shown) configured to determine the current speed of the vehicle 102; a wheel speed sensor (not shown) configured to determine whether the vehicle 102 is traveling uphill or downhill; a throttle position sensor (not shown) configured to determine whether a downshift or upshift of one or more gears associated with the vehicle 102 is required in the current state of the vehicle 102; and / or a turbo speed sensor (not shown) configured to transmit data associated with the rotational speed of the torque converter of the vehicle 102.

[0031] The wireless transmission module 124 transmits information collected by one or more sensors to the vehicle-side AVM algorithm 122. In one embodiment, the vehicle-side AVM algorithm 122 may be a component within the wireless transmission module 124. For example, vehicle 102 utilizes the vehicle-side AVM algorithm 122 to process information collected by one or more sensors and transmit it to the infrastructure system 110, such as, but not limited to, one or more anticipated operational anomalies associated with the operational behavior of vehicle 102 in one or more instances when vehicle 102 is moving within a grouped environment. As another example, vehicle 102 utilizes the vehicle-side AVM algorithm 122 to process information collected by one or more sensors and transmit the information directly to the vehicle manufacturing cloud system 104. The vehicle-side AVM algorithm 122 is configured to transmit information and / or instructions received from the infrastructure system 110 and / or the vehicle manufacturing cloud system 104 to the wireless transmission module 124.

[0032] The vehicle central gateway module 126 operates as an interface between various vehicle domain bus systems, such as engine compartment bus (not shown), interior bus (not shown), optical bus for multimedia (not shown), diagnostic bus for maintenance (not shown), or vehicle CAN bus 138. The vehicle central gateway module 126 is configured to distribute data transmitted to it from each of the various domain bus systems to other components of the vehicle 102. The vehicle central gateway module 126 is also configured to distribute information received from the vehicle-side AVM algorithm 122 to the various domain bus systems. The vehicle central gateway module 126 is also configured to send information received from the various domain bus systems to the vehicle-side AVM algorithm 122. For example, the vehicle 102 uses the vehicle-side AVM algorithm 122 to process information received from the vehicle central gateway module 126 and sends the information to the infrastructure system 110. As another example, the vehicle 102 uses the vehicle-side AVM algorithm 122 to process information received from the vehicle central gateway module 126 and sends the information directly to the vehicle manufacturing cloud system 104. The vehicle-side AVM algorithm 122 is configured to transmit information and / or instructions received from the infrastructure system 110 and / or the vehicle manufacturing cloud system 104 to the vehicle central gateway module 126.

[0033] The vehicle infotainment system 128 delivers a combination of information and entertainment content and / or services to a user 140 of vehicle 102. It should be understood that in some examples, the vehicle infotainment system 128 may only deliver entertainment content to the user 140 of vehicle 102. It should also be understood that in other examples, the vehicle infotainment system 128 may deliver information services to anyone associated with vehicle 102. As an example, the vehicle infotainment system 128 includes a built-in vehicle computer that combines one or more functions, such as a digital radio, a built-in camera, and / or a television. The vehicle infotainment system 128 transmits information associated with the built-in vehicle computer or processor to a vehicle-side AVM algorithm 122. For example, vehicle 102 utilizes the vehicle-side AVM algorithm 122 to process information received from the vehicle infotainment system 128 and transmits said information to infrastructure system 110. As another example, vehicle 102 utilizes the vehicle-side AVM algorithm 122 to process information received from the vehicle infotainment system 128 and transmits said information directly to vehicle manufacturing cloud system 104. The vehicle-side AVM algorithm 122 is configured to transmit information and / or instructions received from the infrastructure system 110 and / or the vehicle manufacturing cloud system 104 to the vehicle infotainment system 128.

[0034] One or more vehicle sensors 130 may be one or more of, for example, cameras, lidar, radar, and / or ultrasonic devices. For example, an ultrasonic device serving as one or more vehicle sensors 130 emits high-frequency sound waves that strike a wall or another vehicle and are then reflected back to vehicle 102. Based on the amount of time it takes for the sound waves to return to vehicle 102, vehicle 102 can determine the distance between the one or more vehicle sensors 130 and the wall or another vehicle. As another example, a camera device serving as one or more vehicle sensors 130 provides a visual indication of the space around vehicle 102. As an additional example, a radar device serving as one or more vehicle sensors 130 emits electromagnetic wave signals that strike a wall or another vehicle and are then reflected back to vehicle 102. Based on the amount of time it takes for the electromagnetic waves to return to vehicle 102, vehicle 102 can determine the distance, speed, and angle of vehicle 102 relative to the wall or another vehicle.

[0035] One or more vehicle sensors 130 transmit information associated with the position and / or distance of vehicle 102 relative to a wall or another vehicle to vehicle-side AVM algorithm 122. For example, vehicle 102 utilizes vehicle-side AVM algorithm 122 to process information received from one or more vehicle sensors 130 and transmit said information to infrastructure system 110. As another example, vehicle 102 utilizes vehicle-side AVM algorithm 122 to process information received from one or more vehicle sensors 130 and transmit said information directly to vehicle manufacturing cloud system 104. Vehicle-side AVM algorithm 122 is configured to transmit information and / or instructions received from infrastructure system 110 and / or vehicle manufacturing cloud system 104 to one or more vehicle sensors 130.

[0036] Vehicle battery 132 is controlled by a battery management system (not shown) that provides instructions to vehicle battery 132. For example, the battery management system provides instructions to vehicle battery 132 based on the temperature of vehicle battery 132. However, it should be understood that the battery management system may provide instructions to vehicle battery 132 based on any metric associated with vehicle battery 132, such as the state of power of vehicle 102, the period of time during which vehicle 102 is in an off state at least during the day, or a combination thereof. The battery management system ensures that the current pattern of vehicle battery 132 is acceptable. For example, an acceptable current pattern prevents overvoltage, overcharge, and / or overheating of vehicle battery 132. As another example, the temperature of vehicle battery 132 indicates to the battery management system whether any of the acceptable current patterns is within an acceptable temperature range. The battery management system associated with vehicle battery 132 transmits information related to the temperature of vehicle battery 132 to vehicle-side AVM algorithm 122. For example, vehicle 102 uses vehicle-side AVM algorithm 122 to process the received information about vehicle battery 132 and transmit said information to infrastructure system 110. As another example, vehicle 102 utilizes vehicle-side AVM algorithm 122 to process information about vehicle battery 132 and transmits the information directly to vehicle manufacturing cloud system 104. Vehicle-side AVM algorithm 122 is configured to transmit information and / or instructions received from infrastructure system 110 and / or vehicle manufacturing cloud system 104 to vehicle battery 132.

[0037] Vehicle GNSS 134 is configured to communicate with satellites, enabling vehicle 102 to determine its exact location. Vehicle navigation map system 136 can display the exact location of vehicle 102 to user 140 via a display screen (not shown). Vehicle GNSS 134 transmits geographic information associated with vehicle 102 to vehicle-side AVM algorithm 122. For example, vehicle 102 uses vehicle-side AVM algorithm 122 to process information received from vehicle GNSS 134 and transmit the information to infrastructure system 110. As another example, vehicle 102 uses vehicle-side AVM algorithm 122 to process information from vehicle GNSS 134 and transmit the information directly to vehicle manufacturing cloud system 104. Vehicle-side AVM algorithm 122 is configured to transmit information and / or instructions received from infrastructure system 110 and / or vehicle manufacturing cloud system 104 to vehicle GNSS 134. As another example, vehicle 102 utilizes vehicle-side AVM algorithm 122 to process information associated with vehicle navigation map system 136 and transmits said information to infrastructure system 110. As yet another example, vehicle 102 utilizes vehicle-side AVM algorithm 122 to process information from vehicle navigation map system 136 and transmits said information directly to vehicle manufacturing cloud system 104. Vehicle-side AVM algorithm 122 is configured to transmit information and / or instructions received from infrastructure system 110 and / or vehicle manufacturing cloud system 104 to vehicle navigation map system 136.

[0038] Vehicle 102 is configured to transmit any information associated with any component included within vehicle 102 to one or more auxiliary vehicles 142. Vehicle 102 is also configured to transmit (e.g., forward) any instructions received from infrastructure system 110 and / or vehicle manufacturing cloud system 104 to any of the one or more auxiliary vehicles 142. For example, communication between vehicle 102 and one or more auxiliary vehicles 142 may assist infrastructure system 110 and / or vehicle manufacturing cloud system 104 in grouping one or more auxiliary vehicles 142. It should be understood that each of the one or more auxiliary vehicles 142 may include any of the components described as included within vehicle 102, such as vehicle-side AVM algorithm 122, wireless transmission module 124, vehicle central gateway module 126, vehicle infotainment system 128, one or more vehicle sensors 130, vehicle battery 132, vehicle GNSS 134, vehicle navigation map system 136, and / or CAN vehicle bus 138. It should also be understood that any of the one or more auxiliary vehicles 142 is configured to transmit information associated with any component included within vehicle 102. It should also be understood that one or more additional vehicles 142 may also be configured to establish direct wireless communication lines (e.g., via communication links) with the infrastructure system 110 and / or the vehicle manufacturing cloud system 104, thereby enabling direct exchange of information between one or more additional vehicles 142 and the infrastructure system 110 and / or the vehicle manufacturing cloud system 104.

[0039] The vehicle delivery manager cloud system 106 wirelessly communicates (e.g., receives and / or sends instructions and / or information) with one or more of the following: rental agency cloud system 144, valet parking agency cloud system 146, insurance agency cloud system 148, and / or dealer system 150. The vehicle delivery manager cloud system 106 is configured to facilitate the delivery of one or more vehicles to any of the following: a rental agency (not shown) associated with rental agency cloud system 144, a valet parking agency (not shown) associated with valet parking agency cloud system 146, an insurance agency (not shown) associated with insurance agency cloud system 148, and / or dealer system 150. The vehicle delivery manager cloud system 106 also wirelessly communicates with the vehicle customer web portal account cloud system 108. It should be understood that other cloud systems may be included in one or more examples.

[0040] The vehicle delivery manager cloud system 106 communicates wirelessly with a user device 152, such as a mobile device, display panel, and / or computer. The vehicle 102 is also configured to communicate directly with the user device 152 wirelessly. For example, a user 140 engages with the user device 152 via an application that organizes any information and / or instructions received from the vehicle customer web portal account cloud system 108 and / or the vehicle 102. As another example, the user 140 may send one or more instructions to the vehicle customer web portal account cloud system 108, such as selecting which vehicle the user 140 wants to receive from any of the following: a rental agency associated with the rental agency cloud system 144, a valet parking agency associated with the valet parking agency cloud system 146, an insurance agency associated with the insurance agency cloud system 148, and / or a dealership system 150.

[0041] In one or more embodiments, Figure 2 It was shown as Figure 1 The system 200 is an exemplary embodiment of the AVM system 100 depicted in the diagram. More specifically, Figure 2 A system 200 is shown that facilitates the manipulation of one or more automated and / or semi-automated vehicles 102 (e.g., one or more vehicles 102a, 102b) within a troop environment. System 200 includes an infrastructure system 110. Infrastructure 110 includes sensor components 114 that communicate with a set of infrastructure sensors 204, such as, for example, one or more cameras, lidar, radar, and / or ultrasonic devices. The set of infrastructure sensors 204 is configured to monitor the movement of vehicle 102 as it moves through the troop environment. In one or more examples, the set of infrastructure sensors 204 is configured to utilize a shared global coordinate system for monitoring the movement of vehicle 102 as it moves through the troop environment.

[0042] Infrastructure system 110 also includes a wireless communication component 116 providing communication between infrastructure system 110 and vehicle 102. Additionally, infrastructure system 110 includes infrastructure controller 202. Infrastructure controller 202 is configured to centrally control the operation of each of vehicles 102a and 102b in a closed-loop control system. However, it should be understood that infrastructure controller 202 is configured to centrally control the operation of each of vehicles 102a and 102b within the functional and / or technical limits of any system. For example, the operation of each of vehicles 102a and 102b includes propulsion, braking, and / or steering of vehicle 102. It should be understood that infrastructure controller 202 may be located within infrastructure system 110 or externally relative to infrastructure system 110.

[0043] In one or more embodiments, the infrastructure-side AVM algorithm (AVM software module) 114 can create a bounding box 206 associated with the vehicle 102 (e.g., as shown in the image). Figure 2 One or more bounding boxes 206a, 206b are shown. As an example, bounding box 206 (e.g., a virtual vehicle layout) defines vehicle 102 within a matrix grid. As another example, and for the grouping of more than one vehicle 102 in the infrastructure system 110, bounding boxes 206a, 206b define each vehicle 102a, 102b, respectively. As yet another example, the creation (e.g., generation) of bounding boxes 206 can help accurately group vehicles 102 through the grouping environment and thus support the operational functionality of the infrastructure sensor suite and / or vehicle sensor suite.

[0044] In one or more embodiments, the AVM system 100 also includes a vehicle manufacturing cloud system 104, which can operate as a central cloud system for managing and / or facilitating the manufacturing processes associated with the vehicle 102 described herein. In one or more examples, the infrastructure system 110 is configured to communicate wirelessly with the vehicle manufacturing cloud system 104, and in some cases, the vehicle manufacturing cloud system 104 is configured to cause the infrastructure system 110 to monitor the progress of the vehicle 102 as it advances through the marshalling environment, as described herein.

[0045] Further reference Figure 3 In various forms, vehicle 102 can be powered in various ways (e.g., using electric motors and / or internal combustion engines). It should be understood that vehicle 102 can be any type of vehicle powered by electric motors and / or internal combustion engines, such as cars, trucks, robots, aircraft, and / or boats. Vehicle 102 typically includes a vehicle controller 300, one or more actuators 302, multiple onboard sensors 304, an HMI 306, and a vehicle system 308. Vehicle 102 also has a reference point 310, i.e., a designated point within the space defined by the vehicle body, which identifies the position of vehicle 102. For example, reference point 310 is the geometric center point where the respective longitudinal and lateral center axes of vehicle 102 intersect. As another example, reference point 310 is the point where vehicle 102 is located when navigating toward a waypoint.

[0046] The multiple vehicle-mounted sensors 304 include various means for providing data to the vehicle controller 300. For example, the multiple vehicle-mounted sensors 304 may include object detection sensors (e.g., lidar sensors) disposed on or in the vehicle 102, providing the relative position, size, and / or shape of one or more objects (such as attached vehicles, bicycles, robots, drones, etc.) traveling beside, in front of, and / or behind the vehicle 102. As another example, one or more of the multiple vehicle-mounted sensors 304 may be radar sensors fixed to one or more bumpers of the vehicle 102, which can provide the position of an object relative to the position of each vehicle 102. As yet another example, one or more of the multiple vehicle-mounted sensors 304 may be configured to monitor one or more functionalities associated with one or more internal components of one or more vehicles 102.

[0047] Multiple onboard sensors 304 may include camera sensors that provide images from the area surrounding vehicle 102, such as providing front, side, and rear views. As another example, vehicle controller 300 may be programmed to receive sensor data from the camera sensors and implement image processing techniques to detect roads, infrastructure elements, etc. Vehicle controller 300 may be programmed to determine the current vehicle position based on location coordinates (e.g., GPS coordinates) received from vehicle 102 indicating the position of vehicle 102 from a GPS sensor (not shown).

[0048] In some examples, the vehicle controller 300 is configured or programmed to control one or more of the following: vehicle braking, propulsion (e.g., controlling the acceleration of vehicle 102 by controlling one or more of an internal combustion engine, electric motor, hybrid engine, etc.), steering, climate control, interior and / or exterior lights, etc. In other examples, the vehicle controller 300 is also configured or programmed to determine whether and when the vehicle controller 300 (rather than a human operator) controls such operations associated with vehicle 102. It should be understood that any operation associated with vehicle 102 can be facilitated via automated, semi-automated, or manual modes. For example, an automated mode can facilitate complete control of any operation by the vehicle controller 300 without the assistance of a human operator. As another example, a semi-automated mode can facilitate at least partial control of any operation by a human operator in combination with the vehicle controller 300. As yet another example, a manual mode can facilitate complete control of operation by a human operator without the assistance of the vehicle controller 300.

[0049] The vehicle controller 300 includes one or more processors (not shown), or can be communicatively coupled to one or more processors (e.g., via a vehicle communication bus). For example, the one or more processors may be controllers included in the vehicle 102, used to monitor and / or control various vehicle controllers, such as powertrain controllers, brake controllers, steering controllers, etc. The vehicle controller 300 is typically arranged for various communications over a vehicle communication network (not shown) (which may include buses in the vehicle 102, such as a CAN bus, etc.) and / or other wired and / or wireless mechanisms.

[0050] The vehicle controller 300 transmits and / or receives messages from various devices in the vehicle 102 via a vehicle network, such as one or more actuators 302, HMI 306, etc. Alternatively or additionally, where the vehicle controller 300 includes multiple devices, a vehicle communication network is used for communication between the devices represented herein as the vehicle controller 300. Furthermore, as discussed below, various other controllers and / or sensors provide data to the vehicle controller 300 via the vehicle communication network.

[0051] Additionally, the vehicle controller 300 is configured via a vehicle-side AVM algorithm 122 to communicate with the vehicle-to-infrastructure communication network, such as identifying the trajectory of the vehicle 102 relative to a target driving path.

[0052] In one or more embodiments, the vehicle-side AVM algorithm 122 is configured to evaluate the performance of one or more components of vehicle 102 in response to vehicle 102 performing one or more performance-based tasks. In one or more examples, the one or more performance-based tasks are performed by each of the one or more vehicles moving along a similar path within the grouped environment based on a specific evaluation. In one or more examples, the one or more components of vehicle 102 may include, but are not limited to, powertrain components, chassis systems, or combinations thereof. It should be understood that the one or more components of one or more vehicles 102 may include any number of components functionally associated with the performance of one or more performance-based tasks by one or more vehicles 102.

[0053] For example, the evaluation may be related to, but is not limited to, chassis-based testing, performance-based testing, environment-based testing, and / or customer-use-based testing. It should be understood that the evaluation provides the basis for the vehicle-side AVM algorithm 122 to evaluate any functionality-related performance associated with each of the one or more vehicles. It should also be understood that the basis for the vehicle-side AVM algorithm 122 considers how the execution of one or more performance-based tasks affects one or more components of vehicle 102.

[0054] In one or more examples, chassis-based testing may include, but is not limited to, vehicle 102 pushing over one or more wheel stops, moving up and / or down ramps at different angles, turning with various radii and / or over and / or around one or more obstacles. In one or more examples, performance-based testing may include, but is not limited to, vehicle 102 accelerating from 0 mph to 60 mph (or between other speeds) and / or towing an object while moving. In one or more examples, environment-based testing may include, but is not limited to, testing performance related to one or more functions of vehicle 102 in a hot or cold chamber. In one or more examples, customer-use-based testing may include, but is not limited to, applying one or more external loads to the vehicle.

[0055] In one or more embodiments, the evaluation can be performed inside vehicle 102. In one or more examples, a plurality of onboard sensors 304 can be configured to evaluate the performance of one or more components of vehicle 102 relative to power changes that vehicle 102 can use to overcome one or more obstacles in a performance-based task. In one or more examples, a plurality of onboard sensors 304 can be configured to evaluate the performance of one or more components of vehicle 102 relative to torque changes that vehicle 102 can use to overcome one or more obstacles in a performance-based task. For example, evaluating the performance of one or more components of vehicle 102 relative to power changes and / or torque changes may include monitoring (e.g., via a plurality of onboard sensors 304) the speed at which vehicle 102 can perform one or more performance-based tasks.

[0056] In one or more examples, the plurality of on-board sensors 304 may also be configured to assess one or more of the vehicle power, torque capability, and / or temperature behavior that may result from the performance of one or more components of the vehicle 102 in response to the vehicle 102 performing one or more performance-based tasks. In one or more examples, the plurality of on-board sensors 304 may further be configured to assess one or more of the vibration changes and / or acceleration changes that may result from the performance of one or more components of the vehicle 102 in response to the vehicle 102 performing one or more performance-based tasks.

[0057] In one or more examples, a plurality of on-board sensors 304 may be configured to evaluate the performance of one or more components of vehicle 102 with respect to the accuracy with which vehicle 102 can control one or more of the torque applied by vehicle 102, the speed of the engine associated with vehicle 102, and / or the speed of the electric motor associated with vehicle 102. In one or more examples, a plurality of on-board sensors 304 may be configured to evaluate the performance of one or more components of vehicle 102 with respect to the ability of vehicle 102 to control one or more of the torque applied by vehicle 102, the speed of the engine associated with vehicle 102, and / or the speed of the electric motor associated with vehicle 102.

[0058] In one or more examples, the plurality of on-board sensors 304 may also be configured to evaluate the performance of one or more components of vehicle 102 relative to one or more of the maximum performance capability of vehicle 102, the performance output of vehicle 102, the charging level of the battery (e.g., low-voltage battery or high-voltage battery) associated with vehicle 102 and / or the total energy consumption of vehicle 102.

[0059] In one or more embodiments, the evaluation can also be performed externally relative to vehicle 102. In one or more examples, vehicle-side AVM algorithm 122 can perform one or more analyses based on an evaluation of the performance of one or more components of vehicle 102 relative to any of the performance-based tasks. As an example, the one or more analyses may include perception analysis, which may include field-of-view analysis, power analysis, signal strength of reflected beams, identification of one or more objects, distance measurement, detection accuracy, or a combination thereof. However, it should be understood that the one or more analyses may include any other type of analysis. In one or more examples, perception analysis may be used to identify vehicle fluid levels associated with vehicle 102, identify oil leaks associated with vehicle 102, identify travel ranges associated with one or more components of vehicle 102, monitor one or more responses associated with one or more components of vehicle 102, or a combination thereof.

[0060] It should be understood that one or more performance-based tasks can be formulated to utilize as many of the vehicle 102's components as possible in relation to the vehicle 102's functionality. In one or more embodiments, the vehicle 102 may perform a powertrain and chassis quality assessment by moving over one or more angled bumps (e.g., one or more obstacles) that cause the vehicle 102 to sway (e.g., rock) from side to side as it moves in a grouped environment. In one or more examples, the set of infrastructure sensors 204 may monitor the progress of the vehicle 102 associated with the completion of one or more performance-based tasks to determine the wheel alignment of the vehicle 102. In this case, one or more timestamped data points may be obtained from the sway of the vehicle 102 (e.g., via vehicle-side AVM algorithm 122). For example, one or more timestamped data points may be obtained from one or more ride height sensors, throttle sensors, and / or brake sensors of the vehicle 102. However, it should be understood that any other embodiments associated with various performance-based tasks are contemplated, and the embodiments described herein should be considered only as non-limiting exemplary use cases.

[0061] The vehicle controller 300 is also configured via the vehicle-side AVM algorithm 122 to communicate with other traffic objects (e.g., vehicles, infrastructure, etc.) through a wireless vehicle communication interface, such as via a vehicle-to-vehicle communication network. The vehicle communication network refers to one or more mechanisms by which the vehicle controller 300 of vehicle 102 communicates with other traffic objects. As an example, the vehicle communication network can be one or more wireless communication mechanisms, including any desired combination of wireless (e.g., cellular, wireless, satellite, microwave, and / or radio frequency) communication mechanisms, and any desired network topology (or multiple topologies utilizing multiple communication mechanisms). Examples of vehicle communication networks include cellular, Bluetooth®, IEEE 802.11, Dedicated Short Range Communication (DSRC), and / or Wide Area Network (WAN) (including the Internet) providing data communication services.

[0062] One or more actuators 302 are implemented via circuits, chips, or other electronic and / or mechanical components that can actuate various vehicle subsystems according to appropriate control signals. Actuators 302 can be used to control the braking, acceleration, and / or steering of vehicle 102. Vehicle controller 300 can be programmed to activate one or more actuators 302 (including propulsion, steering, and / or braking actuators) based on planned acceleration or deceleration of vehicle 102.

[0063] HMI 306 is configured to receive information from a human operator during operation of vehicle 102. Furthermore, HMI 306 is configured to present information to a human operator, such as an occupant of vehicle 102. In some variations, vehicle controller 300 is programmed to receive destination data (e.g., location coordinates) from HMI 306.

[0064] Vehicle system 308 is configured to control each of the subsystems within vehicle 102 and facilitate requests across each of the aforementioned components (e.g., vehicle controller 300, one or more actuators 302, multiple on-board sensors 304, and / or HMI 306). Therefore, at least multiple on-board sensors 304 can be used to autonomously guide vehicle 102 to waypoints. Route selection can be performed using vehicle position, distance traveled, queuing for waiting vehicles, etc.

[0065] Figure 4 This is a flowchart illustrating an exemplary method 400 for evaluating the quality of the powertrain and / or chassis associated with an automated vehicle (e.g., vehicle 102). At operation 402, the automated vehicle is configured to perform one or more performance-based tasks. In one or more examples, the automated vehicle is configured to perform the one or more performance-based tasks as the automated vehicle moves through a grouped environment. As another example, the one or more performance-based tasks include at least one of chassis-based testing, acceleration-based testing, environment-based testing, usage-based testing, or combinations thereof.

[0066] At operation 404, the performance of one or more components of the automated vehicle is evaluated. For example, the evaluation is performed by the automated vehicle itself. In one or more examples, the performance of one or more components of the automated vehicle is evaluated in response to the performance of one or more performance-based tasks. As another example, one or more components of the automated vehicle include powertrain components, chassis systems, or combinations thereof. As yet another example, the performance evaluation of one or more components is performed inside the automated vehicle, outside the automated vehicle, or a combination thereof.

[0067] In one or more embodiments, one or more sensors of the automated vehicle (e.g., multiple on-board sensors 304) are configured to evaluate the performance of one or more components of the automated vehicle by monitoring power variations, torque variations, vehicle power, one or more torque capabilities, temperature behavior, vibration variations, acceleration variations, accuracy of torque control, accuracy of engine speed control, accuracy of electric motor control, capability of torque control, capability of engine speed control, capability of electric motor control, maximum performance capability, performance output, battery charging, battery discharging rate, overall energy consumption level, or combinations thereof.

[0068] In one or more examples, each of one or more sensors of an automated vehicle and one or more sensors of an infrastructure system (e.g., infrastructure system 110) (e.g., the set of infrastructure sensors 204) is configured to evaluate the performance of one or more components of the automated vehicle by performing perception analysis of the automated vehicle, identifying vehicle fluid levels, identifying oil leaks, identifying travel ranges associated with the one or more components, monitoring one or more responses associated with the one or more components, or a combination thereof.

[0069] At operation 406, the automated vehicle is also configured to determine whether one or more of the evaluated results exceed a performance-based threshold. It should be understood that the performance-based threshold may represent a predefined range associated with one or more results, indicating an acceptable variation in the expected behavior of the automated vehicle when performing one or more performance-based tasks.

[0070] At operation 408, the automated vehicle is also configured to transmit an alarm in response to the assessment exceeding a performance-based threshold. In one or more examples, the alarm is a service request. However, it should be understood that the alarm can be a notification related to any type of request associated with the automated vehicle.

[0071] In one or more embodiments, the automated vehicle is further configured to perform one or more additional performance-based tasks in response to the evaluation exceeding a performance-based threshold. The automated vehicle is then configured to evaluate the performance of one or more components in response to the completion of the one or more additional performance-based tasks.

[0072] Figure 5 This is a flowchart illustrating another exemplary method 500 for evaluating the quality of the powertrain and / or chassis associated with an automated vehicle (e.g., vehicle 102). At operation 502, the automated vehicle is configured to perform one or more performance-based tasks. In one or more examples, the automated vehicle is configured to perform the one or more performance-based tasks as the automated vehicle moves through a grouping environment.

[0073] At operation 504, the performance of one or more components of the automated vehicle is evaluated. For example, the evaluation is performed by the automated vehicle itself. In one or more examples, the performance of one or more components of the automated vehicle is evaluated in response to the performance of one or more performance-based tasks.

[0074] At operation 506, the automated vehicle is also configured to determine whether one or more results of the evaluation exceed a performance-based threshold. It should be understood that the performance-based threshold may represent a predefined range associated with one or more results, indicating an acceptable variation in the expected behavior of the automated vehicle when performing one or more performance-based tasks. In one or more embodiments, the determination of whether one or more results of the evaluation exceed the performance-based threshold may be based on the execution of a statistical analysis of one or more results. In one or more examples, and where it is determined that one or more results of the evaluation do not exceed the performance-based threshold, the evaluation of the performance of one or more components of the automated vehicle (e.g., at operation 504) is repeated.

[0075] However, in other examples, and where it is determined at operation 506 that one or more evaluation results exceed a performance-based threshold, the automated vehicle is also configured to transmit an alarm at operation 508 in response to the evaluation exceeding the performance-based threshold. In one or more examples, the alarm may be a service request. However, it should be understood that the alarm may be a notification relating to any type of request associated with the automated vehicle that could cause the automated vehicle to be grouped toward a repair shop or inspection-related workstation. In one or more examples, the alarm may include information associated with one or more conditions that could explain why and / or how one or more evaluation results exceeded the performance-based threshold.

[0076] In one or more examples, in response to an evaluation exceeding a performance-based threshold, the automated vehicle may be caused to perform one or more additional performance-based tasks, which in turn leads to an additional evaluation of the performance of one or more components of the automated vehicle in response to the completion of the one or more additional performance-based tasks.

[0077] Figure 6An operating environment, such as a computer system, is shown that facilitates the execution of one or more systems and methods described herein. More specifically, the systems and methods described herein can be implemented using computing device 602. For example, computing device 602 can be a personal computer, desktop computer, laptop computer, tablet computer, handheld computer, server, workstation, mainframe, wearable computer, supercomputer, or a combination thereof. However, it should be understood that the foregoing examples of computing device 602 are not exhaustive, and computing device 602 can be any type of processing or computing device. Computing device 602 typically includes a processor 604, a display adapter 606, one or more input / output ports 608, one or more input / output components 610, a network adapter 612, a power supply 614, and memory 616. However, it should be understood that computing device 602 may include any additional components and does not need to include the listed components (e.g., processor 604, display adapter 606, one or more input / output ports 608, one or more input / output components 610, network adapter 612, power supply 614, and memory 616).

[0078] Processor 604 is configured to provide instructions to computing device 602, enabling computing device 602 to process one or more tasks, including implementing software programs to perform one or more operations as described in more detail herein. It should also be understood that computing device 602 may include any number of processors 604. Display adapter 606 may be a graphics card or video board that provides computing device 602 with the ability to display content on display device 618. For example, display device 618 may be any screen, monitor, and / or light-emitting component associated with any of a personal computer, desktop computer, laptop computer, tablet computer, handheld computer, server, workstation, host computer, wearable computer, supercomputer, or a combination thereof. However, it should be understood that the foregoing examples of display device 618 are not exhaustive, and display device 618 may be any type of device capable of providing visual display.

[0079] Input / output port 608 provides multiple interfaces (e.g., jacks) for one or more cables to connect to computing device 602. It should be understood that any number of input / output ports 608 may be present on computing device 602. For example, input / output port 608 provides computing device 602 with a means to receive signals and / or data from external devices connected to computing device 602 via one or more cables. As another example, input / output port 608 provides computing device 602 with a means to transmit signals and / or data to external devices connected to computing device 602 via one or more cables. Input / output component 610 may include one or more components supporting input / output port 608, such as, but not limited to, switches, buttons, pressure pads, float switches, keypads, radio receivers, or combinations thereof.

[0080] Network adapter 612 can be any type of network interface controller configured to provide means for communicating with another computing device (such as remote computing device 622) via network 620. For example, remote computing device 622 can be a user device such as a cellular phone, smartphone, tablet computer, laptop computer, or a combination thereof. Power supply 614 is configured to convert high-voltage alternating current (e.g., AC) into direct current (e.g., DC) to provide power to other components of computing device 602 (e.g., processor 604, display adapter 606, one or more input / output ports 608, one or more input / output components 610, network adapter 612, and memory 616).

[0081] Additionally, memory 616 may be a mass storage device and / or system memory, such as a hard disk drive, memory card, solid-state drive, random access memory (RAM), or a combination thereof. Memory 616 is configured to provide storage for instructions and data associated with the operation of computing device 602. Memory 616 may typically include operating system 624, evaluation software 626, and evaluation data 628. For example, operating system 624 is configured to manage and / or process any data and / or instructions associated with evaluation software 626 and / or evaluation data 628, as described in more detail herein.

[0082] Furthermore, system bus 630 is also included within computing device 602, which is configured to couple each of its various components (e.g., processor 604, display adapter 606, one or more input / output ports 608, one or more input / output components 610, network adapter 612, power supply 614, and memory 616). It should also be understood that the functions associated with each component of computing device 602 and with each component of computing device 602 can be implemented within remote computing device 622. Although Figure 6The operating environment shown herein depicts a specific configuration associated with at least computing device 602, network 620, and remote computing device 622; however, it should be understood that the operating environment can be configured in any manner.

[0083] Therefore, one or more examples of this disclosure provide a means for evaluating the quality of one or more components of an automated vehicle, namely the vehicle powertrain and chassis, by utilizing a suite of external vehicle sensors and / or an infrastructure-based sensor suite to monitor the operational behavior of the vehicle.

[0084] Unless otherwise expressly indicated herein, all numerical values ​​indicating mechanical / thermal properties, percentage of composition, dimensions and / or tolerances or other characteristics should be understood as being modified by the words “about” or “approximately” when describing the scope of this disclosure. Such modification is desired for various reasons, including: industrial practice; material, manufacturing and assembly tolerances; and testing capabilities.

[0085] As used herein, the phrases A, B, and C at least one should be interpreted as representing logic (A or B or C) using the non-exclusive logic "or", and should not be interpreted as representing "at least one of A, at least one of B, and at least one of C".

[0086] In this application, the terms “controller” and / or “module” may refer to, be part of, or include the following: application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC); digital, analog, or mixed analog / digital discrete circuit; digital, analog, or mixed analog / digital integrated circuit; composable logic circuit; field-programmable gate array (FPGA); processor circuitry (shared, dedicated, or grouped) that executes code; memory circuitry (shared, dedicated, or grouped) that stores code executed by the processor circuitry; other suitable hardware components that provide the described functionality; or combinations of some or all of the foregoing, such as in a system-on-a-chip.

[0087] The term memory is a subset of the term computer-readable medium. As used herein, the term computer-readable medium does not cover transient electrical or electromagnetic signals propagated through a medium (such as on a carrier wave); therefore, the term computer-readable medium can be considered tangible and non-transient. Non-limiting examples of non-transient tangible computer-readable media include non-volatile memory circuits (such as flash memory circuits, erasable programmable read-only memory circuits, or mask read-only circuits), volatile memory circuits (such as static random access memory circuits or dynamic random access memory circuits), magnetic storage media (such as analog magnetic tape or digital magnetic tape or hard disk drives), and optical storage media (such as CDs, DVDs, or Blu-ray discs).

[0088] The apparatus and methods described in this application can be implemented, in part or in whole, by a dedicated computer created by configuring a general-purpose computer to perform one or more specific functions embodied in a computer program. Function blocks, flowchart components, and other elements described above serve as software specifications that can be translated into computer programs through the routine work of a technician or programmer.

[0089] The description in this disclosure is merely exemplary in nature, and therefore, variations without departing from the spirit and scope of this disclosure are intended to be made within its scope. Such variations should not be considered as departing from the spirit and scope of this disclosure.

[0090] According to the present invention, one or more non-transitory computer-readable media stores processor-executable instructions, which, when executed by at least one processor, cause the at least one processor to: perform one or more performance-based tasks by the automated vehicle as the automated vehicle moves through a grouping environment; evaluate the performance of one or more components of the automated vehicle in response to performing the one or more performance-based tasks; determine whether one or more results of the evaluation exceed a performance-based threshold; and transmit a service request in response to the evaluation exceeding the performance-based threshold.

[0091] According to one embodiment, the one or more performance-based tasks include at least one of chassis-based testing, acceleration-based testing, environment-based testing, usage-based testing, or a combination thereof.

[0092] According to one embodiment, the one or more components of the automated vehicle include powertrain components, chassis systems, or combinations thereof, and the performance evaluation of the one or more components is performed inside the automated vehicle, outside the automated vehicle, or in combination thereof.

[0093] According to one embodiment, one or more sensors of the automated vehicle are configured to evaluate the performance of the one or more components of the automated vehicle by monitoring power changes, torque changes, vehicle power, one or more torque capabilities, temperature behavior, vibration changes, acceleration changes, accuracy of torque control, accuracy of engine speed control, accuracy of electric motor control, torque control capability, engine speed control capability, electric motor control capability, maximum performance capability, performance output, battery charging, battery discharging rate, overall energy consumption level, or a combination thereof.

[0094] According to one embodiment, each of one or more sensors of the automated vehicle and one or more sensors of the infrastructure system is configured to evaluate the performance of the one or more components of the automated vehicle by performing perception analysis of the automated vehicle, identifying vehicle fluid levels, identifying oil leaks, identifying travel ranges associated with the one or more components, monitoring one or more responses associated with the one or more components, or a combination thereof.

[0095] According to one embodiment, the at least one processor is further caused to: execute one or more additional performance-based tasks in response to the evaluation exceeding the performance-based threshold; and evaluate the performance of the one or more components in response to the completion of the one or more additional performance-based tasks.

Claims

1. A method comprising: As the automated vehicle moves through the grouping environment, one or more performance-based tasks are performed by the automated vehicle. The performance of one or more components of the automated vehicle is evaluated in response to the execution of one or more performance-based tasks; Determine whether one or more results of the evaluation exceed a performance-based threshold; as well as An alarm is transmitted in response to the assessment exceeding the performance-based threshold.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein the alarm is a service request.

3. The method of claim 1, wherein the one or more performance-based tasks include at least one of chassis-based testing, acceleration-based testing, environment-based testing, usage-based testing, or a combination thereof.

4. The method of claim 1, wherein the one or more components of the automated vehicle include powertrain components, chassis systems, or combinations thereof.

5. The method of claim 1, wherein the evaluation of the performance of the one or more components is performed inside the automated vehicle, outside the automated vehicle, or a combination thereof.

6. The method of claim 1, wherein one or more sensors of the automated vehicle are configured to evaluate the performance of the one or more components of the automated vehicle by monitoring power variation, torque variation, vehicle power, one or more torque capabilities, temperature behavior, vibration variation, acceleration variation, accuracy of torque control, accuracy of engine speed control, accuracy of electric motor control, capability of torque control, capability of engine speed control, capability of electric motor control, maximum performance capability, performance output, battery charging, battery discharging rate, overall energy consumption level, or a combination thereof.

7. The method of claim 1, wherein each of the one or more sensors of the automated vehicle and the one or more sensors of the infrastructure system is configured to evaluate the performance of the one or more components of the automated vehicle by performing perception analysis of the automated vehicle, identifying vehicle fluid levels, identifying oil leaks, identifying travel ranges associated with the one or more components, monitoring one or more responses associated with the one or more components, or a combination thereof.

8. The method of claim 1, further comprising: In response to the assessment exceeding the performance-based threshold, one or more additional performance-based tasks are performed; as well as The performance of the one or more components is evaluated in response to the completion of the one or more additional performance-based tasks.

9. A system comprising: An infrastructure system configured to monitor the movement of automated vehicles through a grouping environment; and The automated vehicle is configured as follows: As the automated vehicle moves through the grouping environment, it performs one or more performance-based tasks. The performance of one or more components of the automated vehicle is evaluated in response to the execution of one or more performance-based tasks; Determine whether one or more results of the evaluation exceed a performance-based threshold; as well as An alarm is transmitted in response to the assessment exceeding the performance-based threshold.

10. The system of claim 9, wherein the alarm is a service request.

11. The system of claim 9, wherein the one or more performance-based tasks include at least one of chassis-based testing, acceleration-based testing, environment-based testing, usage-based testing, or a combination thereof.

12. The system of claim 9, wherein the one or more components of the automated vehicle include powertrain components, chassis systems, or combinations thereof, and wherein the evaluation of the performance of the one or more components is performed inside the automated vehicle, outside the automated vehicle, or in combination thereof.

13. The system of claim 9, wherein one or more sensors of the automated vehicle are configured to evaluate the performance of the one or more components of the automated vehicle by monitoring power variation, torque variation, vehicle power, one or more torque capabilities, temperature behavior, vibration variation, acceleration variation, accuracy of torque control, accuracy of engine speed control, accuracy of electric motor control, capability of torque control, capability of engine speed control, capability of electric motor control, maximum performance capability, performance output, battery charging, battery discharging rate, overall energy consumption level, or a combination thereof.

14. The system of claim 9, wherein each of the one or more sensors of the automated vehicle and the one or more sensors of the infrastructure system is configured to evaluate the performance of the one or more components of the automated vehicle by performing perception analysis of the automated vehicle, identifying vehicle fluid levels, identifying oil leaks, identifying travel ranges associated with the one or more components, monitoring one or more responses associated with the one or more components, or a combination thereof.

15. The system of claim 9, wherein the automated vehicle is further configured to: In response to the evaluation exceeding the performance-based threshold, perform one or more additional performance-based tasks; and The performance of the one or more components is evaluated in response to the completion of the one or more additional performance-based tasks.

Images