Interlock Circuit for Autonomous Vehicle Mode Transition
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle control systems lack a reliable method for safe transition between manual and autonomous modes, particularly in diesel-electric propulsion systems, which can lead to unintended vehicle movement during mode changes, posing safety risks for drivers and operators.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of two hardware selector switches and an interlock circuit that disconnects the supply voltage from the traction alternator exciter, ensuring propulsion is deactivated when switching between modes, with the switches spatially separated to prevent simultaneous access, and an interlock circuit trigger to safeguard against unintended operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a single mode selector switch is used for transitioning between manual and autonomous modes, then the ease of operation is improved, but the reliability is worsened due to risk of unintended vehicle movement during mode changes
Solution Approach 1:
The single mode selector switch is segmented into two separate selector switches (first selector switch and second selector switch). Both switches must be in the same position (manual or autonomous) for the vehicle to operate safely. This segmentation prevents unintended mode transitions by requiring coordinated operation of both switches, thereby resolving the contradiction between ease of operation and reliability.
2Ease of operation
If the selector switches are placed close together for easy access, then the ease of operation is improved, but the reliability is worsened as a single operator could accidentally change both switches
Solution Approach 1:
The two selector switches are placed in asymmetric locations that are both easily accessible but require deliberate separate actions to change. The first selector switch and second selector switch are positioned such that changing both to the same position requires intentional operation, preventing accidental simultaneous changes while maintaining ease of access. This asymmetric placement resolves the contradiction between accessibility and accident prevention.
3Reliability
If the interlock circuit continuously monitors both selector switches, then the reliability is improved by preventing unintended movement, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The complex continuous electronic monitoring system is replaced with a simpler interlock circuit that uses basic electrical contacts and logic. The interlock circuit receives signals from the two selector switches and directly controls the propulsion system state without requiring complex continuous monitoring. This substitution reduces device complexity while maintaining reliability in preventing unintended vehicle movement.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This solution ensures safe and controlled transitions between manual and autonomous modes by deactivating propulsion during mode changes, enhancing operator safety and preventing unintended vehicle movement, thereby addressing the safety concerns in diesel-electric propulsion systems.
Implementation Method 1
an interlock circuit being configured to cut off power to the exciter
Data Source
AI summary
The present application relates to a vehicle comprising a vehicle control system, the vehicle control system being configured to operate the vehicle in an autonomous mode and in a manual mode, the vehicle control system comprising: a first selector switch for switching between said autonomous mode and said manual mode; a second selector switch for switching between said autonomous mode and said manual mode; and an interlock circuit configured to deactivate propulsion of the machine when the first and the second selector switch are switched to different modes.