Vehicle Collision Time Prediction Using Travel Envelope Segmentation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for calculating the time until a possible collision between vehicles are complex and unsuitable for real-time applications, requiring numerous case distinctions and varying calculations based on different collision scenarios.
Innovation Solution
A method that simplifies the calculation of collision time by categorizing scenarios into two types: one based on absolute speed and one based on relative speed, using a travel envelope and a quadrilateral representation of the object, allowing for a generic calculation applicable to various scenarios.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If existing methods for calculating collision time are used, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases and real-time calculation becomes unsuitable
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the continuous collision calculation problem into discrete scenarios based on the relative positions of object corners with respect to the travel envelope. By dividing the calculation space into distinct regions (object completely inside envelope, completely outside, partially overlapping), the system applies different simplified formulas for each segment, reducing overall computational complexity while maintaining precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the calculation parameters based on the detected scenario. Instead of using a single complex formula for all cases, it switches between different parameter sets: using only the first vehicle's speed for certain scenarios, or incorporating relative speeds for others. This dynamic parameter selection simplifies calculations while preserving accuracy.
2Measurement precision
If existing methods for calculating collision time are used, then measurement precision is improved, but productivity decreases due to unsuitability for real-time applications
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the calculation into predefined scenarios with dedicated formulas, the system eliminates the need for complex real-time optimization and interpolation operations. Each scenario has a direct calculation path, enabling real-time processing while maintaining the precision needed for collision prediction.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies partial action by selecting only the necessary speed parameters for each scenario. Rather than always calculating with full vehicle dynamics models, it uses simplified speed relationships appropriate for each geometric configuration, reducing computational load while maintaining sufficient precision for real-time decision-making.
3Measurement precision
If numerous case distinctions are made for different collision scenarios, then measurement precision is improved, but ease of operation worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the complex multi-case problem into a manageable set of primary scenarios defined by corner positions relative to the travel envelope. This segmentation creates a clear decision hierarchy that improves ease of operation compared to the original numerous case distinctions, while preserving measurement precision through scenario-specific formulas.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for calculating a predicted time until a possible collision between a first motor vehicle and an object is disclosed herein. The method includes ascertaining a travel envelope of the first motor vehicle and representing the object by four corners. The method includes ascertaining the time until the possible collision for a point in time in an interval during which at least one part of the object is located in the travel envelope, based on an absolute first speed of the first motor vehicle and regardless of a second speed of the object in a first situation and based on a relative speed between the first motor vehicle and the object in a second situation. The method includes determining whether the first situation or the second situation is occurring based on the respective position of the four corners relative to the travel envelope.