Adaptive Model Predictive Control for Autonomous Vehicle Path Tracking
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current model predictive controllers for autonomous vehicles rely on fixed operational parameters that do not account for dynamic changes in vehicle and external conditions, leading to suboptimal performance in path tracking and maneuvering.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a trained machine learning vehicle performance circuit to dynamically update operational parameters, such as vehicle and external parameters, using simulations to determine optimal values for path tracking, corridor keeping, and collision avoidance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If fixed operational parameters are used in model predictive controllers, then the controller structure is simple and easy to implement, but the controller cannot adapt to dynamic changes in vehicle conditions and external factors, leading to suboptimal performance
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic operational parameters that are continuously updated based on real-time vehicle conditions and external factors. The machine learning circuit dynamically adjusts parameters such as vehicle mass, friction coefficients, and aerodynamic drag based on sensor inputs and simulated experiences, transforming the static controller into an adaptive system that evolves with changing conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs self-service through automated machine learning processes that continuously train and update the operational parameters without manual intervention. The neural network automatically processes sensor data, simulates vehicle behavior, and refines parameters based on performance feedback, enabling the controller to self-optimize its performance across diverse operating conditions.
2Reliability
If learned operational parameters are used to adapt to vehicle and external condition changes, then path tracking and maneuvering performance is improved, but the system complexity and computational requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary action by pre-training the machine learning model through extensive simulations before actual vehicle operation. The neural network is trained offline using simulated vehicle behavior across various conditions, allowing it to learn optimal parameter values in advance. This pre-learning reduces the computational burden during real-time operation while maintaining high path tracking accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses copying by creating virtual copies of the vehicle system in simulation environments. The machine learning model learns from simulated vehicle behavior and external conditions, copying real-world physics and dynamics into the virtual training environment. This allows the system to accumulate training data and refine parameters without requiring extensive real-world testing, reducing overall system complexity.
3Measurement precision
If extensive simulations are conducted to train the machine learning circuit, then the accuracy of determined operational parameters is improved, but the training time and computational resources increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies partial action by conducting simulations only for the specific vehicle maneuvers and conditions most relevant to the autonomous vehicle's operational envelope. Rather than exhaustively simulating all possible scenarios, the training focuses on representative cases that capture the essential dynamics, achieving sufficient parameter accuracy with reduced computational effort and training time.
Data Source
AI summary
A computer implemented method for determining optimal values for operational parameters for a model predictive controller for controlling a vehicle, can receive from a data store or a graphical user interface, ranges for one or more external parameters. The computer implemented method can determine optimum values for external parameters of the vehicle by simulating a vehicle operation across the ranges of the one or more operational parameters by solving a vehicle control problem and determining an output of the vehicle control problem based on a result for the simulated vehicle operation. A vehicle can include a processing component configured to adjust a control input for an actuator of the vehicle according to a control algorithm and based on the optimum values of the vehicle parameter as determined by the computer implemented method.


