Steer-by-Wire Mode Transition Synchronization

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Solution Overview

Problem

Steer-by-wire systems face challenges in transitioning smoothly between autonomous and manual control modes, particularly in vehicles equipped with EPS systems, where inertial impacts and diagnostic monitoring vary between modes, requiring adaptive solutions for safe and intuitive steering control transitions.

Innovation Solution

A system utilizing a processor and memory with instructions to manage operating mode transitions by determining planned trajectories, synchronizing road wheel and handwheel actuator angles, providing haptic feedback, and performing driver readiness assessments to facilitate smooth transitions between autonomous and manual control modes using a shared control transition mode.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If the vehicle transitions from autonomous to manual control mode, then driver engagement is improved, but inertial impacts and control instability occur

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedriver engagementVSAvoidcontrol stability
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSStability of the object's composition

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs preliminary actions by providing haptic feedback and notifications to the driver before the mode transition is complete, preparing the driver for the upcoming change in control mode and reducing the shock of sudden transitions

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The system dynamically adjusts the transition process based on real-time conditions, including synchronized adjustment of handwheel and road wheel angles, and adaptive haptic feedback that varies during the transition to maintain stability while enabling driver engagement

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Ease of operation

If the handwheel angle is freely changed during transition, then driver control is improved, but synchronization with road wheel angle deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedriver controlVSAvoidangle synchronization
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The system continuously monitors both handwheel angle and road wheel angle, providing feedback through haptic cues when angles are misaligned, and dynamically adjusting the transition to maintain synchronization while allowing driver input

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The system uses an intermediary synchronized control mechanism that mediates between the driver's handwheel input and the road wheel position, ensuring that angle synchronization is maintained during the transition through coordinated adjustment of both actuators

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Loss of time

If the transition is performed quickly, then response time is improved, but haptic feedback and driver readiness assessment are compromised

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetransition durationVSAvoidtransition safety
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of timeVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The system uses periodic haptic feedback during the transition process to guide the driver through readiness assessments and confirm proper engagement, maintaining reliability through structured periodic interactions rather than continuous delays

Inventive Principle:
Principle #19Periodic action

Solution Approach 2:

The system performs preliminary driver readiness assessments and haptic feedback sequences before completing the transition, ensuring safety criteria are met while minimizing overall transition time through efficient pre-validation

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentUS11318962B2Systems and methods for vehicle steering control
Publication Date: 2022.05.03 STEERING SOLUTIONS IP HOLDING CORP
  • US11318962B2 patent drawing
  • US11318962B2 patent drawing
  • US11318962B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A method for providing operating mode transition for a vehicle includes receiving an input indicating a request to transition from a first operating mode of the vehicle to a second operating mode of the vehicle and determining a first planned trajectory corresponding to the first operating mode. The method also includes determining a second planned trajectory corresponding to the second operating mode. The method also includes determining a first road wheel actuator angle corresponding to the first planned trajectory and determining a second road wheel actuator angle corresponding to the second planned trajectory. The method also includes determining a difference between a current handwheel actuator angle and a handwheel actuator angle corresponding to the second road wheel actuator angle and, in response to a determination that the difference is less than a threshold, transitioning from the first operating mode to the second operating mode over a determined period.