Remote Vehicle Fleet Control Using Map-Linked Vehicle Bots
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Solution Overview
Problem
Monitoring and controlling a large fleet of autonomous vehicles is challenging for operators, as existing systems lack efficient methods for intuitive and scalable remote control and monitoring.
Innovation Solution
A remote vehicle control system that includes a horizontal display with vehicle graphics on a map, vehicle bots that move on the display to represent vehicle locations, and an input device for operators to control vehicles remotely, allowing for intuitive monitoring and control of physical and virtual vehicles.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional monitoring systems are used to track multiple vehicles, then vehicle location data can be displayed, but the system becomes complex and difficult to operate when managing large fleets
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses vehicle bots as simplified copies or representations of actual vehicles. Each bot is a virtual counterpart that mirrors the physical vehicle's location and status on a digital map, allowing operators to monitor multiple vehicles through these simplified virtual representations rather than complex raw data displays
Solution Approach 2:
The vehicle bot serves as an intermediary between the complex vehicle telemetry systems and the operator interface. It translates raw vehicle location data into intuitive visual representations on a map, and converts operator control inputs into vehicle control commands, simplifying the interaction for operators
2Adaptability or versatility
If remote control capabilities are added to assist vehicles, then vehicle control can be provided, but the system complexity increases making it harder to manage large fleets
Solution Approach 1:
The vehicle bot is designed as a universal control interface that can manage multiple vehicles through a single standardized system. The same bot interface and control mechanisms can be applied to any vehicle in the fleet, providing versatile control capabilities without requiring separate complex systems for each vehicle
Solution Approach 2:
By creating virtual copies (bots) of vehicles, the system provides remote control capabilities through simplified virtual interfaces rather than direct complex vehicle system connections. The bot acts as a virtual remote that mirrors vehicle functions, making control more accessible and manageable
3Reliability
If operators monitor every detail of each vehicle, then complete control is achieved, but the time and effort required increases significantly for large fleets
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the fleet into individual vehicle bots displayed on a map, allowing operators to divide their attention across multiple vehicles. Each vehicle can be monitored independently through its own bot representation, enabling selective focus on specific vehicles rather than attempting to monitor all vehicles simultaneously in detail
Solution Approach 2:
Virtual vehicle bots serve as simplified proxies that capture essential vehicle information without requiring operators to analyze complete raw data sets. The bots provide sufficient information for effective monitoring and control decisions while reducing the cognitive load and time required compared to detailed direct vehicle monitoring
Data Source
AI summary
The disclosure describes systems and methods including for monitoring and remotely controlling a fleet of autonomous vehicles. The remote vehicle control system includes a horizontal display with vehicle graphics on a map and determines a control input to control a vehicle based on a device input from an input device.