Lanekeeping Torque via Mechanical Steering Modification
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional lanekeeping assistance systems fail to provide smooth and non-intrusive steering torque control, leading to an unpredictable and disruptive steering feel for drivers, which affects vehicle control and driver acceptance.
Innovation Solution
A method that determines road lane characteristics, vehicle velocity, and position to calculate a desired steering angle, generating lanekeeping torque by modifying mechanical steering torques such as jacking, aligning, inertia, and damping torques, ensuring smooth and predictable control without overriding the driver's input.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If formal control techniques are used to control vehicle in absence of driver, then vehicle control precision is improved, but driver acceptance deteriorates because driver's steering wheel movement is treated as disturbance to be compensated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent converts the harmful effect of treating driver input as disturbance into a beneficial effect by reinterpreting driver steering movements as useful information for determining desired steering angle. The driver's natural steering behavior, which was previously considered a disturbance to be eliminated, is now utilized to improve both control precision and driver acceptance by aligning the lanekeeping torque with the driver's intended direction.
2Ease of operation
If steering torque is limited to avoid conflicts with driver, then driver acceptance is improved, but vehicle control adequacy deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic adjustment of lanekeeping torque based on driver behavior patterns. The system continuously monitors driver steering movements and adapts the torque magnitude and timing accordingly. When driver input is detected, the torque is reduced or delayed; when driver input subsides, the torque increases to maintain lane position. This dynamic approach ensures both driver acceptance and adequate vehicle control across varying driving conditions.
3Extent of automation
If lanekeeping torque is applied to steering system, then lanekeeping assistance function is achieved, but steering feel becomes unpredictable and intrusive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the system continuously monitors driver steering wheel movements and adjusts the lanekeeping torque in real-time. The feedback loop detects when the driver is actively steering and modifies or pauses the application of lanekeeping torque accordingly. This feedback-based approach ensures that the torque application is context-aware, preventing unpredictable or intrusive steering feel while maintaining the lanekeeping assistance function when the driver is not actively maneuvering.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for providing a lanekeeping assistance for a vehicle includes determining road lane characteristics such as a road lane curvature. A vehicle velocity and a vehicle position with respect to a road lane are also determined. A desired steering angle is determined as a function of at least the road lane characteristics. A lanekeeping torque acting on the steering system of the vehicle in order to keep the vehicle on a desired path is determined as a function of at least the desired steering angle. The lanekeeping torque is generated by modifying at least one mechanical steering torque such as a jacking torque, an aligning torque, an inertia torque and a damping torque.