Driving Assistance Shadow Mode for Data-Backed Feature Upgrades
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for autonomous and semi-autonomous motor vehicle operation lack efficiency in upgrading and testing driving assistance systems, failing to effectively communicate potential benefits of new hardware and software versions to users.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that operates a driving assistance system in a 'shadow mode' with a second version of hardware and/or software, comparing real and virtual operating data to inform drivers of advantages and offering on-demand upgrades, including features like freeway pilot, park assistant, and enhanced emergency brake assistance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a second version of hardware and/or software is operated in shadow mode for testing purposes, then the reliability of the driving assistance system is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a virtual copy of the driving assistance system running in shadow mode with a second version of hardware and/or software. This copy processes the same sensor data in parallel without interfering with the real system, allowing safe testing and comparison while maintaining system reliability without permanently increasing physical device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The second version of the driving assistance system is prepared and tested in advance in shadow mode before being deployed to the real system. This preliminary testing allows potential issues to be identified and resolved beforehand, improving reliability while avoiding the need for complex real-time testing mechanisms
2Loss of information
If real operating data is collected and compared with virtual operating data, then the information quality for decision-making is improved, but the loss of time for data processing increases
Solution Approach 1:
The shadow mode system continuously processes sensor data in parallel with the real system without interruption. Data collection and comparison occur continuously during normal operation, eliminating the need for separate testing phases and reducing overall time loss while maintaining high information quality through continuous real-world data gathering
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex physical testing mechanisms with virtual simulation and data comparison. Instead of physically testing new hardware/software versions, the system uses computational processing to compare virtual operating data with real data, significantly reducing processing time while maintaining information quality
3Ease of operation
If the driving assistance system offers on-demand activation of specific functions, then the ease of operation is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts its configuration by allowing on-demand activation of specific functions. The driving assistance system can change its operational state based on user needs, enabling or disabling particular features as required. This dynamic adaptability improves ease of operation without requiring permanent complex hardware configurations for all possible functions
4Productivity
If the second version of hardware and/or software includes additional or improved functions, then the productivity of the driving assistance system is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the driving assistance system into modular functional units. The second version contains additional or improved functions organized as separate modules that can be independently activated. This segmentation allows the system to provide enhanced productivity through selective function activation without requiring all functions to be permanently integrated, thus managing device complexity
Data Source
AI summary
A method is provided for autonomously or semi-autonomously operating a motor vehicle using a DAS (driving assistance system) that is operated in real terms with a first hardware version and/or software version (20). Real operating data (12) are recorded during operation of the DAS with the first hardware version and/or software version and also are recorded during operation of the motor vehicle by the driver with or without assistance from the DAS. The DAS is operated virtually in a shadow mode (9) with at least a second hardware version and/or software version. Virtual operating data are determined during operation of the DAS with the second hardware version and/or software version. Real operating data (12) are compared with virtual operating data, and the result of the comparison is used to make the driver aware of the advantages of switching from the first (20) to the second hardware version and/or software version.