ADS ODD Expansion Using Degraded-Mode Constraint Logic
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing Automated Driving Systems (ADS) face challenges in defining comprehensive Operational Design Domains (ODDs) due to the complexity of scenarios and dependencies between environmental conditions and component capabilities, leading to frequent deactivation in minor violations, which reduces system uptime and functionality.
Innovation Solution
A computer-implemented method that dynamically evaluates scenario parameters using a logic formula combining hard and soft constraints to allow ADS operation in a degraded mode, extending the ODD by adjusting variable state parameters to ensure safety compliance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the ADS is limited to operate only under strict ODD conditions to ensure safety, then the safety requirements are fulfilled, but the system uptime and functionality are reduced due to frequent deactivation in minor violations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by transitioning from a static ODD framework to a dynamic one where the system can adapt its operational status. The ADS evaluates scenario parameters in real-time and dynamically adjusts between full operation, degraded mode, and deactivation states. This allows the system to maintain safety while improving uptime by operating in degraded modes during minor violations rather than complete deactivation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements parameter changes by introducing a nuanced operational framework with multiple states (full operation, degraded mode, deactivation) instead of binary on/off states. The system changes operational parameters based on the severity of ODD violations, allowing continued operation with modified capabilities when safety risks are manageable, thereby resolving the contradiction between safety and uptime.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the ODD conditions are expanded to allow more scenarios, then the system uptime and versatility are improved, but the complexity of defining and managing comprehensive safety requirements increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the ODD evaluation into distinct scenario parameters (weather, road, traffic, etc.) that can be independently assessed. This modular approach allows the system to handle complex environments by breaking them down into manageable parameter evaluations, reducing the complexity of defining comprehensive safety requirements while expanding versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses dynamics to create a flexible ODD framework that adapts to different scenarios without requiring complete redefinition. The system dynamically evaluates whether current conditions meet ODD requirements and adjusts operational mode accordingly, enabling expanded scenario coverage while managing complexity through real-time assessment rather than static exhaustive definition.
3Reliability
If the ADS is deactivated in response to ODD violations to ensure safety, then the safety requirements are maintained, but the loss of functionality and increased deactivation frequency reduce operational efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies partial action by implementing degraded operational modes where the ADS continues to function with reduced capabilities rather than complete deactivation. When minor ODD violations occur, the system performs partial operation (degraded mode) that maintains essential safety functions while preserving continuity of service, thereby reducing deactivation frequency and time loss while maintaining adequate safety compliance.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms that continuously monitor scenario parameters and adjust operational status accordingly. This real-time feedback allows the system to make informed decisions about activation, degraded mode, or deactivation based on current conditions, optimizing the balance between safety compliance and operational continuity by avoiding unnecessary complete deactivations.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for managing an Operational Design Domain (ODD) expansion for an Automated Driving System (ADS) of a vehicle is disclosed. The method includes: obtaining a plurality of scenario parameters defining the environment of the vehicle, wherein each scenario parameter corresponds to a respective condition of the ODD; in response to the plurality of scenario parameters fulfilling the plurality of ODD conditions: allowing the ADS to be activated or to remain active; if not: querying a logic formula based on the obtained plurality of scenario parameters, such that if at least one soft constraint of the logical formula is satisfied without violating any hard constraints of the logical formula, and allowing the ADS to be activated in a degraded mode by limiting one or more variable state parameters of the ADS to conform to the determined set of values of the one or more variable state parameters.