Acoustic Driver Assistance for Track Trajectory Optimization
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Solution Overview
Problem
High-performance sports cars are underutilized on public roads due to speed limits, and inexperienced drivers struggle to optimize track performance and safety, with existing driver assistance systems often distracting and less effective in enhancing driving pleasure and safety.
Innovation Solution
A method for performance-enhancing driver assistance using a tracking device and control unit to identify optimal trajectories and suggest actions through a light interface device and haptic feedback, allowing drivers to maintain focus on the road while receiving guidance on acceleration, braking, and gear shifts without external coaching.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If a head-up display is used to indicate trajectory information, then the driver receives guidance on optimal trajectory, but the driver's view is distracted from the track ahead
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses acoustic signals as an intermediary medium to convey trajectory information to the driver. Instead of displaying visual information on a head-up display that requires the driver to look away from the track, the system translates trajectory guidance into audible cues through the steering wheel or audio system, allowing the driver to maintain visual focus on the track while receiving necessary guidance information.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the visual display mechanism (head-up display) with an acoustic feedback mechanism. The trajectory information is transmitted through sound waves via the steering wheel vibrations or audio speakers, substituting the optical information delivery system with an acoustic one that does not require the driver's visual attention and thus eliminates the distraction problem.
2Loss of information
If a coach provides coaching lessons to improve track performance, then the driver receives personalized guidance, but the driver's autonomy and learning optimization are hindered
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a self-service system where the vehicle itself provides coaching information to the driver through automated tracking and analysis. The system autonomously monitors the driver's performance, compares it with optimal trajectories, and delivers corrective guidance without requiring a human coach. This enables the driver to learn and improve independently while maintaining full autonomy over the driving experience.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent establishes a continuous feedback loop where the vehicle's tracking device monitors the driver's actual trajectory, compares it with the pre-stored optimal trajectory data, and provides real-time corrective feedback through acoustic signals. This automated feedback mechanism replaces the need for a human coach while empowering the driver to self-correct and optimize their performance independently.
3Reliability
If electronic driver assistance devices continuously intervene to protect the car, then the car's safety is improved, but the driving pleasure is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies partial intervention by providing trajectory guidance information to the driver rather than automatically controlling the vehicle. The system delivers acoustic cues about optimal trajectory and timing, allowing the driver to make the final decisions and execute the actions themselves. This partial level of assistance maintains driver engagement and driving pleasure while still providing safety-relevant information.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces acoustic trajectory guidance as an intermediary between the safety system and the driver. Instead of direct mechanical intervention that would remove control from the driver, the system uses audio cues as a mediator to communicate safety-relevant trajectory information, allowing the driver to maintain full control and driving pleasure while benefiting from enhanced safety awareness.
Data Source
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AI summary
A method for the performance-enhancing driver assistance of a road vehicle (1) on a track (T) comprising the steps of: determining, in use, the current position (AP) and the current orientation of the road vehicle (1) on the track (T) by means of a tracking device (3); identifying an optimal trajectory in relation to the conformation of the track (T) and/or the to road vehicle (1); determining, in use, a lateral deviation of the road vehicle (1) from the optimal trajectory and/or an understeer/oversteer condition in curve (C); suggesting to the driver, by means of a haptic interface device (13) arranged in such a way that it is perceivable by the driver and does not obstruct the driver's view of the road, depending on the lateral deviation and/or on the understeer/oversteer condition in curve (C), one or more actions to be performed in order to vary a lateral dynamic of the road vehicle (1) in order to perform a mission which optimises the performance on the track (T).