Vehicle Steering Mode Transition via Torque Thresholds
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current systems lack the ability to dynamically shift between autonomous and manual modes of vehicle operation based on user input that differs from the vehicle's current state, such as speed and trajectory, in autonomous or semi-autonomous vehicles.
Innovation Solution
A computer system that measures manual steering torque input and actuates a manual or autonomous steering mode based on predefined torque and time thresholds, which are adjusted according to the vehicle's speed, allowing users to temporarily take control of steering and return to autonomous mode after completing a maneuver.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the system uses fixed torque thresholds to detect manual steering input, then the detection criterion is simple, but it cannot adapt to different vehicle speeds and conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the torque threshold variable rather than fixed. The threshold dynamically adjusts based on vehicle speed, allowing the system to adapt to different operating conditions. At higher speeds, higher torque is required to indicate genuine manual intervention, while at lower speeds, smaller torque inputs are sufficient.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter of torque threshold based on vehicle speed. By establishing a relationship between speed and threshold values, the system adapts its detection criteria to match the physical realities of different driving conditions, improving accuracy without requiring complex mechanical adjustments.
2Reliability
If the system requires prolonged torque input above threshold to activate manual mode, then false activations are reduced, but response time to genuine user intent increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses periodic sampling of steering torque at defined intervals rather than continuous monitoring. This approach reduces false activations by requiring sustained torque input across multiple sampling periods while maintaining reasonable response time. The periodic nature filters out transient noise while still detecting genuine user intent.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates feedback by continuously monitoring whether torque remains above the threshold across multiple sampling intervals. This feedback mechanism confirms genuine user intent while filtering false activations, balancing reliability with responsive time through iterative verification.
3Ease of operation
If the system allows rapid switching between autonomous and manual modes, then user control flexibility is improved, but system stability and safety are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent requires preliminary sustained torque input above the threshold before allowing mode switching. This preliminary action ensures genuine user intent is established before transitioning from autonomous to manual mode, preventing accidental or premature mode changes while maintaining operational flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically evaluates torque input over time rather than responding instantaneously. This dynamic approach allows flexible mode transitions when genuine intent is detected while maintaining stability by filtering out transient or accidental inputs through time-based verification.
4Measurement precision
If the system uses low torque thresholds to detect subtle user input, then sensitivity to user intent is improved, but susceptibility to noise and false detection increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses periodic sampling of steering torque at defined intervals rather than continuous monitoring. This approach detects subtle user inputs while filtering noise by requiring sustained torque across multiple sampling periods, improving measurement precision without increasing false detection susceptibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs feedback through continuous verification that torque remains above the threshold across multiple sampling intervals. This feedback mechanism confirms genuine subtle user intent while filtering out transient noise, maintaining high sensitivity without increasing false detection rates.
Data Source
AI summary
A manual steering torque input is measured. A manual steering mode of a vehicle is actuated when the manual steering torque input is below a first torque threshold and above a second torque threshold for longer than a time threshold that is based on a vehicle speed.