Steering Assist Torque Control for Collision Avoidance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional collision avoidance support systems for vehicles are limited in preventing collisions with objects and maintaining riding comfort during avoidance control.
Innovation Solution
A vehicle control apparatus and method that includes sensors for detecting objects and driver steering input, with an Autonomous Emergency Steering Assist (AESA) device and a Driver-initiated Emergency Steering Assist (DESA) device, controlled by a processor to apply varying steering assist torque values based on collision risk levels and driver input, using longitudinal collision estimated time and lateral offset to determine risk levels.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional collision avoidance control is applied with fixed braking assist release timing, then the control system is simple to operate, but collision prevention effectiveness deteriorates when collision prediction time varies
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by transitioning from fixed timing braking assist release to dynamic timing based on collision prediction time. The control system now adjusts the braking assist release timing according to the detected collision prediction time, making the system adaptive to varying collision scenarios rather than using a predetermined fixed timing approach.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter of braking assist release timing from a fixed value to a variable parameter that depends on collision prediction time. By making the release timing a function of the detected collision prediction time, the system optimizes collision prevention effectiveness across different scenarios without requiring complete redesign of the control architecture.
2Reliability
If conventional collision avoidance control uses uniform assist torque, then the control system is simple, but riding comfort deteriorates during avoidance control
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by differentiating the assist torque application based on driver steering input characteristics. Instead of uniform assist torque, the system provides differentiated torque support: higher assist torque when driver input is small, and reduced assist torque when driver input is large. This localized adjustment of torque quality maintains riding comfort while respecting driver intent.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the assist torque parameter from a uniform fixed value to a variable parameter that depends on driver steering input magnitude. The control system dynamically adjusts the assist torque level based on the detected driver input, creating a more comfortable and natural steering experience during collision avoidance maneuvers.
3Reliability
If collision avoidance control intervenes strongly without detecting driver intent, then collision prevention is improved, but driver control authority deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies feedback by continuously monitoring driver steering input and using this information to adjust the level of autonomous emergency steering assist. The system provides feedback to the driver through appropriate levels of steering support, reducing assist when the driver is actively steering and maintaining assist when the driver input is minimal, thereby preserving driver control authority while ensuring collision avoidance effectiveness.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent makes the steering assist level dynamic based on real-time detection of driver steering input. Rather than applying fixed strong intervention, the system dynamically adjusts the assist torque to match the driver's intended action, maintaining driver control authority while ensuring collision avoidance is achieved when needed.
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed herein is a vehicle control apparatus and a vehicle control method. The vehicle control apparatus includes a first sensor configured to detect an object; a second sensor configured to detect driver steering input information; an Autonomous Emergency Steering Assist (AESA) device configured to perform automatic emergency steering assist; a Driver-initiated Emergency Steering Assist (DESA) device configured to perform emergency steering assistance based on the driver steering input information; and a controller configured to control the AESA device to apply a steering assist control torque value corresponding to the AESA device differently for each of collision risk levels in a collision risk situation with the detected object, and when there is the detected driver steering input information, to control the DESA device to apply a steering assist control torque value corresponding to the DESA device according to the driver steering input information.