Steering Wheel Feedback Mechanism for Semi-Autonomous Vehicles
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current autonomous vehicle systems lack intuitive feedback mechanisms to human drivers, particularly in semi-autonomous modes, which can increase the likelihood of vehicle impacts due to unexpected actions by the vehicle.
Innovation Solution
A computer system in the vehicle is programmed to adjust the steering wheel angle based on predicted future steering angles and a varying ratio that considers current vehicle speed and roadway type, providing intuitive feedback to the driver and allowing time to react to impending vehicle actions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If autonomous vehicle systems operate without steering wheel feedback mechanisms, then automation level is improved, but driver awareness and reaction time deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies feedback by rotating the steering wheel in anticipation of the vehicle's future path, providing tactile feedback to the driver about the autonomous system's intended actions. This allows the driver to sense the vehicle's planned maneuvers through the steering wheel movement, maintaining awareness while the system operates autonomously.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary action by rotating the steering wheel before the vehicle actually executes the maneuver. The steering wheel is rotated to a predicted future angle that anticipates the vehicle's path, giving the driver advance notice of upcoming actions and allowing time to react if necessary.
2Loss of time
If steering wheel angle is adjusted based on predicted future angles, then driver reaction time is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The computer calculates and applies a preliminary steering wheel rotation based on predicted future steering angles and a ratio that accounts for vehicle speed and roadway type. This preliminary action occurs before the vehicle executes the maneuver, giving the driver advance warning while using existing steering system components.
Data Source
AI summary
A computer in a vehicle is programmed to change a steering angle of the vehicle and rotate a steering wheel of the vehicle to a steering-wheel angle based on the steering angle at a preset future time and a determined ratio of the steering-wheel angle to the steering angle. The determined ratio varies based at least on vehicle speed.