Bi-directional Autonomous Vehicle Direction Selection
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Bi-directional autonomous vehicles pose challenges in determining the forward direction and front end, leading to user inconvenience and anxiety, as users may not know which direction the vehicle will travel, especially when seats are arranged facing both forward and backward.
Innovation Solution
A system and method that allow bi-directional autonomous vehicles to select a proper forward direction and front end based on user commands, sitting orientation, prearrangements, and external factors, with the ability to adjust the vehicle's exterior shape to match the chosen direction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If seats are arranged facing both forward and backward directions in a bi-directional autonomous vehicle, then the vehicle gains flexibility in driving directions, but users may not know which direction the vehicle will travel and may end up sitting facing the backward direction, causing inconvenience and anxiety
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary detection of user sitting orientation before the vehicle starts moving. The processor detects which direction the user is facing when they take a seat, and this detection result is used to determine the forward direction before the journey begins, ensuring the user will face the correct direction throughout the trip
Solution Approach 2:
The system provides visual feedback to the user by displaying the determined forward direction and front end on a display device within the vehicle. This feedback mechanism allows users to confirm the vehicle's intended direction before departure, eliminating uncertainty and anxiety about sitting orientation
2Ease of operation
If the vehicle determines forward direction based on user sitting orientation, then user convenience is improved, but the system complexity increases due to detection and decision-making requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The system automatically detects user sitting orientation and determines forward direction without requiring manual user input or complex interaction. The processor autonomously processes the detection data and makes the direction determination, reducing system complexity while maintaining user convenience
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex mechanical direction-determination mechanisms with electronic detection and processing systems. Sensors and processors detect sitting orientation and compute forward direction electronically, simplifying the overall system while improving ease of operation
3Productivity
If the vehicle's exterior shape is adjusted when front and rear ends are switched, then navigation efficiency is enhanced, but the device complexity and energy consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The vehicle's exterior shape is made dynamic and adjustable. When the front and rear ends are switched during bi-directional operation, the exterior shape can be reconfigured to match the new forward direction, enhancing navigation efficiency by presenting the optimal aerodynamic profile for the current direction of travel
Solution Approach 2:
The exterior shape adjustment mechanism serves multiple functions: it improves aerodynamics for navigation efficiency, maintains structural integrity during direction switching, and can potentially serve as additional protective or functional elements depending on the configuration
Data Source
AI summary
System and method for bi-directional autonomous vehicle. In one aspect, a vehicle's forward direction and front end are determined by a user's command or sitting orientation. In another aspect, a vehicle's forward direction and front end are determined by a user's records or prearrangements. Moreover, a vehicle's shape is adjustable according to front end selection.