Map Data Validation via Challenge Questions

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing map validation methods for autonomous vehicles are inadequate in ensuring the accuracy and reliability of map data, particularly in identifying subtle errors and ensuring that critical attributes are correctly set and verified, which can impact the safety of driving decisions.

Innovation Solution

A method and system that utilize challenge questions associated with image information to validate map data, where operators review and answer questions based on retrieved images, with answers used to validate attributes and potentially correct or update the map data, and compare results for accuracy.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If traditional map validation methods are used, then the validation process is simple, but the accuracy and reliability of map data validation is insufficient

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemap data validation accuracyVSAvoidvalidation system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The validation process is segmented into multiple challenge questions, each targeting specific map attributes (e.g., traffic light detection, lane connection, stop sign identification). This divides the complex validation task into manageable, focused questions that operators answer individually, improving overall validation accuracy while maintaining operational feasibility.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Challenge questions serve as an intermediary mechanism between the map data and the validation operator. Instead of directly validating complex map attributes, the system uses structured questions as intermediaries that guide operators' attention to critical features, thereby improving validation reliability without overwhelming the operator with system complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Reliability

If comprehensive map attributes are validated, then the map quality improves, but the validation time and operational complexity increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemap data reliabilityVSAvoidvalidation time
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

Different challenge questions focus on different local aspects of map data quality (traffic lights, lanes, stop signs, intersections). Each question targets specific critical attributes rather than attempting uniform validation of all map features, thereby improving overall map reliability while reducing the time required for comprehensive validation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

The system prepares and presents challenge questions in advance with associated image data, allowing operators to efficiently validate multiple attributes systematically. The predetermined structure of challenge questions enables operators to quickly assess critical map features without spending excessive time on each validation task.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Adaptability or versatility

If multiple challenge questions are used to validate different attributes, then the validation coverage improves, but the interface complexity and operator workload increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvevalidation coverageVSAvoidoperator interface ease
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The challenge question interface serves multiple functions: it displays map images, presents validation questions, collects operator responses, and tracks validation progress all within a single unified interface. This multi-functional design improves validation coverage across different map attributes while maintaining ease of operation through a consistent, standardized interaction model.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS11821751B2Verifying map data using challenge questions
Publication Date: 2023.11.21 WAYMO LLC
  • US11821751B2 patent drawing
  • US11821751B2 patent drawing
  • US11821751B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Aspects of the disclosure relate to validating map data using challenge questions. For instance, an attributes to be validated may be identified from the map data. At least one challenge question may be selected from a plurality of predetermined challenge questions based on the attribute. An image may be retrieved based on image information associated with the at least one challenge question. The image and the at least one challenge question may be provided for display. In response to the providing, operator input identifying an answer to the at least one challenge question may be received. This answer may be then used to validate the attribute.