Multi-position Input Device for Autonomic Vehicle Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current autonomic vehicle control systems lack a user-friendly and intuitive method for operators to seamlessly transition between manual and autonomic control modes, particularly for maneuvers like lane changes and parking, which can be complex and require precise input commands.
Innovation Solution
An input device with distinct positions (neutral, detent, and extended detent) that generates signal outputs to a control module to activate, enable, or deactivate the autonomic control mode, allowing operators to easily command and manage autonomic vehicle maneuvers through a familiar interface, such as a stalk on the steering column, with feedback mechanisms for mode activation status.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a traditional binary switch interface is used for autonomic control activation, then the system is simple to manufacture, but the operator cannot seamlessly transition between manual and autonomic control modes
Solution Approach 1:
The input device transitions from a static binary switch to a dynamic multi-position device that can assume neutral, detent, and extended detent positions. This dynamic capability allows the operator to seamlessly transition between manual and autonomic control modes while providing intuitive feedback about the current control state, thereby improving ease of operation without excessive complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates feedback mechanisms that provide visual and tactile cues to the operator about the current control mode. The control module displays icons indicating whether the vehicle is in manual or autonomic mode, and the input device itself provides tactile feedback through its detent positions, allowing the operator to understand the system state without confusion
2Ease of operation
If a multi-position input device is implemented for seamless mode transitions, then the ease of operation improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The input device is designed to perform multiple functions within a single unified structure. It can detect neutral position (manual mode), detent position (mode transition), and extended detent position (autonomic mode activation). This multi-functionality allows seamless mode transitions while avoiding the need for multiple separate controls, thereby limiting the increase in device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The control module serves as an intermediary that processes the complex multi-position input device signals and translates them into simple autonomic control mode commands. This intermediary layer manages the complexity by handling the interpretation of device positions and coordinating with the autonomic control system, thereby shielding the operator from the underlying complexity
3Measurement precision
If precise input commands are required for autonomic maneuvers, then the control precision improves, but the operator complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates intelligence that allows it to self-configure and self-execute based on the operator's high-level intent. When the operator activates autonomic control mode through the input device, the system automatically determines the appropriate maneuver parameters and executes the maneuver without requiring the operator to provide complex precise commands, thereby maintaining control precision while reducing operator complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary actions by pre-configuring the autonomic control parameters and maneuver plans before execution. The control module prepares the maneuver details and safety checks in advance, allowing the operator to simply activate the mode without needing to provide complex real-time commands, thus achieving precise control with minimal operator complexity
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus for generating autonomic control mode commands to an autonomic control system in a vehicle to execute an autonomic vehicle maneuver in response to an operator command includes a control module signally connected to the autonomic control system and an input device. The input device is manipulated by an operator to transition among operator command positions and configured to generate signal outputs monitored by the control module indicating the operator command positions including a neutral position, a detent position and an extended detent position. The input device further includes a reset state corresponding to the neutral position and monitored by the control module, an initiation state corresponding to the extended detent position and monitored by the control module, and a command state corresponding to the detent position and monitored by the control module.