Vehicle Lane Control via Differential Torque
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle lane control systems, such as LKA and LCA, do not always provide an optimal driving feel, leading to driver dissatisfaction and potential disabling of these features.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a method and system that uses differential torque between the driver side and passenger side wheels, facilitated by a sensor and processor, to automatically adjust the vehicle's position within a lane by determining when lane control is activated and applying torque accordingly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If existing lane control systems (LKA/LCA) are implemented using conventional steering mechanisms, then lane keeping functionality is achieved, but driver satisfaction and perceived naturalness deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces conventional mechanical steering intervention with a torque-based system that applies differential torque to the steering wheel. This substitution transforms the mechanical steering control mechanism into a torque application mechanism that works with the driver's natural steering inputs, thereby maintaining lane keeping functionality while improving driver satisfaction and perceived naturalness.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces torque as an intermediary between the lane control system and the driver's steering input. Instead of directly controlling the steering mechanism, the system applies torque to the steering wheel to influence the driver's steering behavior. This intermediary approach allows the system to guide the vehicle back to the lane center while preserving the driver's sense of control and natural steering feel.
2Measurement precision
If automatic lane control systems are implemented, then vehicle positioning within lane is improved, but driver perception of naturalness and pleasure deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces direct mechanical steering control with torque application to the steering wheel. This allows precise vehicle positioning to be achieved through subtle torque influences on the driver's steering input, rather than through obvious mechanical intervention. The torque-based approach maintains positioning accuracy while preserving the natural feel of driver control.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the control parameter from direct steering angle control to torque application on the steering wheel. This parameter change allows the system to achieve precise lane positioning while the driver experiences only subtle torque cues rather than obvious steering interventions, thereby improving perception of naturalness.
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and systems are provided for implementing a lane control feature for vehicles having a passenger side, a driver side, one or more wheels on the passenger side, and one or more wheels on the driver side. A sensor is configured to obtain information pertaining to operation of a vehicle with respect to a lane of a roadway. The processor is coupled to the sensor, and is configured to at least facilitate determining, using the information, whether the lane control feature is activated, and providing differential torque between one or more driver side wheels and one or more passenger side wheels when the lane control feature is activated.