Autonomous Vehicle Sensor Parameter Switching for Context Adaptation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Autonomous vehicles face inefficiencies in sensor data collection and processing due to fixed parameter settings, which do not adapt to varying environments, leading to suboptimal performance and resource misuse.

Innovation Solution

Implementing context-based parameter switching in autonomous vehicles, where sensor parameters such as distance, direction, and data processing algorithms are dynamically adjusted based on the vehicle's environment, allowing for optimized sensor data collection and processing relevant to the current context.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Device complexity

If fixed parameter settings are used for sensor data collection, then device complexity is reduced, but adaptability to varying environments deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesensor parameter configurationVSAvoidenvironmental adaptation
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic parameter adjustment where sensor parameters (distance, direction, algorithms) are automatically modified based on real-time environmental context. The system transitions from static fixed parameters to dynamic adaptive parameters that respond to changing conditions, resolving the contradiction between simplicity and adaptability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system changes sensor operating parameters (detection distance, scanning direction, processing algorithms) based on environmental context. By implementing parameter switching across multiple levels (sensor operation, data processing, navigation), the system achieves environmental adaptability without requiring complete system redesign.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Adaptability or versatility

If sensor parameters are dynamically adjusted based on environment, then adaptability improves, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveenvironmental adaptationVSAvoidparameter switching system
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the adaptive system into distinct hierarchical levels: sensor operation parameters, data processing parameters, and navigation control parameters. Each level can be adjusted independently based on environmental context, reducing overall system complexity by breaking down the adaptive function into manageable segments.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The system implements a universal context-based parameter switching mechanism that applies across multiple sensor types and processing stages. A single environmental assessment framework controls parameter adjustment for distance, direction, and algorithms uniformly, achieving adaptability through a consolidated multi-functional control system rather than separate specialized systems.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Use of energy by moving object

If fixed sensor parameters are used, then resource consumption is reduced, but performance in varying environments deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesensor resource consumptionVSAvoidnavigation performance
Core Design Contradiction:
Use of energy by moving objectVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The system implements periodic environmental assessment and parameter reconfiguration rather than continuous adjustment. Sensors evaluate environmental context at defined intervals or trigger events, switching parameters only when context changes, thereby reducing resource consumption while maintaining navigation performance through timely adaptive updates.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #19Periodic action

Solution Approach 2:

The system adjusts sensor parameters partially based on environmental context rather than maximizing all sensor capabilities continuously. By activating only the necessary detection distance, direction range, and processing algorithms required for current conditions, the system optimizes resource consumption while maintaining sufficient navigation performance.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #16Partial or excessive action

Data Source

PatentUS11762386B1Modifying the behavior of an autonomous vehicle using context based parameter switching
Publication Date: 2023.09.19 WAYMO LLC
  • US11762386B1 patent drawing
  • US11762386B1 patent drawing
  • US11762386B1 patent drawing

AI summary

A vehicle configured to operate in an autonomous mode may operate a sensor to determine an environment of the vehicle. The sensor may be configured to obtain sensor data of a sensed portion of the environment. The sensed portion may be defined by a sensor parameter. Based on the environment of the vehicle, the vehicle may select at least one parameter value for the at least one sensor parameter such that the sensed portion of the environment corresponds to a region of interest. The vehicle may operate the sensor, using the selected at least one parameter value for the at least one sensor parameter, to obtain sensor data of the region of interest, and control the vehicle in the autonomous mode based on the sensor data of the region of interest.