Autonomous Vehicle Control Handover for Operator Engagement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Operators of autonomous or semi-autonomous vehicles may become inattentive due to prolonged periods of vehicle operation without requiring manual intervention, leading to delayed responses when switching to manual control.
Innovation Solution
A system that monitors disengagement ratios and driving conditions to proactively switch from autonomous to manual mode, using simulated scenarios to maintain operator engagement and awareness.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If autonomous vehicle control is maintained for extended periods, then vehicle automation efficiency is improved, but operator attentiveness deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements periodic disengagement of autonomous vehicle control at predetermined intervals to maintain operator attentiveness. The control module monitors operation duration and automatically transitions between autonomous and manual control modes in periodic cycles, preventing operator inattention while preserving overall automation efficiency.
2Reliability
If autonomous vehicle control is disengaged frequently, then operator engagement is improved, but vehicle productivity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts the disengagement schedule based on real-time monitoring of operator engagement metrics and vehicle operational context. The control module modifies interval timing and duration adaptively, increasing disengagement frequency when operator attention wanes and reducing it when operator engagement is sufficient, thereby optimizing both operator involvement and vehicle productivity.
3Reliability
If manual control is required unexpectedly, then operator responsiveness is tested, but response time deteriorates due to inattentiveness
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary disengagement actions at scheduled intervals before operator inattention sets in. By proactively transitioning to manual control mode in advance, the system maintains operator readiness and prevents delayed responses, ensuring the operator remains engaged and responsive for any unexpected manual control requirements.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems, methods, and other embodiments described herein relate to keeping an operator of a host vehicle that is semi-autonomous or autonomous engaged. In one embodiment, a method includes determining whether a disengagement ratio of the host vehicle is below a predetermined threshold value and determining whether driving conditions at an upcoming road segment are conducive for disengagement of autonomous vehicle control in the host vehicle. The method includes disengaging the autonomous vehicle control in the host vehicle in response to at least the disengagement ratio being below the predetermined threshold value and the driving conditions being conducive for the disengagement of the autonomous vehicle control.


