Single-Pedal Off-Road Torque Control for Obstacle Navigation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Navigating off-road terrain with substantial obstacles requires coordinated application of propulsive and braking torque, which can be challenging for novice drivers using two-pedal driving techniques.
Innovation Solution
A vehicle control system that includes a controller, a single pedal, and a torque control module, which generates both propulsive and braking torque requests based on the operator's intent and vehicle status, allowing for control of net torque applied to the wheels.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If two-pedal driving technique is used for off-road terrain navigation, then coordinated propulsive and braking torque can be applied, but the operation becomes difficult for novice drivers
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the functions of two separate pedals (accelerator and brake) into a single pedal system. The single pedal provides both propulsive and braking torque requests through different pedal positions, eliminating the need for coordinated two-pedal operation while maintaining reliable torque control for off-road navigation
Solution Approach 2:
The single pedal is designed to perform multiple functions: it can generate propulsive torque requests when pressed to certain positions and braking torque requests when pressed to other positions. This multi-functional design allows one pedal to replace the traditional two-pedal system, making the vehicle easier to operate for novice drivers
2Ease of operation
If a single pedal controls both propulsive and braking torque, then ease of operation improves, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a torque control module as an intermediary between the single pedal and the vehicle's propulsion and braking systems. This module receives the single pedal input and automatically generates both propulsive and braking torque requests, handling the system complexity internally while presenting a simple interface to the driver
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical two-pedal control system with an electronically-controlled single pedal system. The torque control module uses electronic signals and control algorithms to generate appropriate torque requests based on pedal position, substituting complex mechanical coordination with electronic control
Data Source
AI summary
A vehicle control system for a vehicle may include a controller, a single pedal and a torque control module. The controller may be operably coupled to components and/or sensors of the vehicle to receive information indicative of operational intent of an operator of the vehicle and information indicative of vehicle status. The single pedal may be configured to provide the information indicative of operational intent. The torque control module may be configured to generate both a propulsive torque request and a braking torque request based on the information indicative of the operational intent and the information indicative of vehicle status.