Adaptive Sensor Observation Range for Automated Lane Changes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Autonomous vehicles face challenges in determining a viable sensor range for lane changes due to extrinsic conditions such as weather, obstructions, and terrain, leading to incomplete knowledge of surroundings and potentially unsafe decisions.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that determine an effective observation area of a sensor affected by extrinsic conditions, calculating an available time for lane changes based on this area, and adjusting the sensor range dynamically by expanding or reducing it as needed, using a processor to assess the coefficient of sensor uncertainty and terrain elevation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If the sensor range is assumed to be at maximum capacity for lane change calculations, then the lane change decision-making is simplified and faster, but the safety and reliability of the lane change is compromised due to incomplete knowledge of surroundings
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the sensor range adaptive rather than static. The effective sensor range is dynamically adjusted based on extrinsic conditions (weather, terrain, obstructions) detected during operation. The system continuously monitors detection quality and modifies the effective range parameter in real-time, allowing the lane change decision system to use an accurate but dynamically adjusted range that maintains both safety and operational efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter of sensor range from a fixed maximum value to a variable effective range. By introducing a coefficient of sensor uncertainty and adjusting the effective range parameter based on extrinsic conditions (rain, fog, snow, dirty sensors, hills, obstructions), the system transforms the static range parameter into a dynamic one that reflects actual detection capabilities, thereby improving reliability without significantly compromising decision-making speed.
2Measurement precision
If the sensor effective range is reduced to account for extrinsic conditions, then the accuracy of surroundings knowledge is improved, but the available time for lane change calculations is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-calculating and storing coefficients of sensor uncertainty for various extrinsic conditions in a calibration table. During operation, when extrinsic conditions are detected (e.g., rain, fog, hills), the system quickly retrieves the pre-determined coefficient and adjusts the effective range accordingly, rather than performing complex real-time calculations. This preliminary preparation reduces the time penalty associated with more accurate measurements.
3Measurement precision
If multiple processes are used to determine sensor effective range, then the comprehensiveness and accuracy of range determination is improved, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the effective range determination into multiple independent processes, each handling a specific aspect: (1) weather condition assessment, (2) terrain evaluation, (3) obstruction detection, and (4) coefficient lookup. Each process operates independently and contributes a factor to the final effective range calculation. This segmentation allows comprehensive assessment while maintaining modularity and managing system complexity through clear separation of concerns.
Data Source
AI summary
An autonomous vehicle and a system and method of operating the autonomous vehicle. The system includes a sensor and a processor. The processor determines an effective observation area of the sensor, the effective observation area being affected by an extrinsic condition. The processor determines an available time for performing a lane change based on the effective observation area and performs the lane change based on the available time.