Lane Change Control Using Single-Button Driver Input
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing lane change assistance systems require complex operations involving the turn signal lever and direction changes, which can be cumbersome for drivers.
Innovation Solution
A vehicle control apparatus that includes a recognition unit to identify the environment and a traveling control unit to execute lane changes based on driver input or proposed changes, allowing for simplified lane change operations through a single button press.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If turn signal lever operation is used for lane change assistance, then lane change control can be achieved, but the operation becomes complex requiring prolonged holds and directional changes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the lane change control function from the complex turn signal lever operation sequence and implements it as a dedicated lane change button. This separates the lane change function from the multifunctional turn signal lever, allowing drivers to initiate lane changes with a single button press rather than complex lever manipulation sequences.
Solution Approach 2:
The lane change button serves multiple functions: it can be pressed once for assisted lane change, held for different lane change modes, or combined with turn signal operations. This multi-functionality consolidates what previously required different lever positions and hold durations into a single unified interface.
2Ease of operation
If turn signal lever is held at first operation position for predetermined time, then lane change assistance control starts, but operation time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The lane change button is pre-configured with different functions based on press duration. A brief press immediately initiates assisted lane change without requiring the driver to hold it for a predetermined time, while longer holds provide alternative lane change modes. This eliminates the time loss associated with holding the turn signal lever.
3Adaptability or versatility
If different operation directions are required for left and right lane changes, then directional control is achieved, but operation complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of requiring different lever directions for left and right lane changes, the patent inverts the approach by using a single lane change button that works for both directions. The system automatically determines the desired lane change direction based on other inputs or context, eliminating the need for the driver to manually select different operation directions.
Data Source
AI summary
A vehicle control apparatus includes a recognition unit configured to recognize an environment in a vicinity of a vehicle; and a traveling control unit configured to execute a lane change of the vehicle based on a recognition result 1w the recognition unit. The traveling control unit selectively executes a lane change of the vehicle based on proposal information of a lane change output to a driver of the vehicle by the traveling control unit and a lane change of the vehicle not based on the proposal information in response to a first operation of the same content by the driver.