Test Terminal for Vehicle Infrastructure Maneuvers

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current test run processes require high experience levels for planning and execution, making it difficult for test drivers to perform complex maneuvers accurately and safely, especially due to the need to memorize instructions and monitor multiple signals in real-time, which can lead to overlooking dangerous conditions or causing unsafe situations.

Innovation Solution

A test terminal system with a computing unit, user interface, and data interface that provides real-time audiovisual feedback and monitoring of test maneuvers, allowing for the execution of complex sequences by relatively inexperienced drivers, with the ability to repeat maneuvers and automatically evaluate post-processing data.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If test instructions are provided in written form during the test drive, then the test driver can refer to detailed criteria, but the driver cannot read the instructions while driving and must memorize them beforehand

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveaccess to test instructionsVSAvoidtime for memorization
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent transitions test instructions from a static 2D written format to a dynamic spatial presentation using augmented reality overlays on the windshield. This allows instructions to be displayed in the driver's field of view without requiring memorization or distraction from the road.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces a head-up display system as an intermediary between the test instructions and the driver. This mediator presents critical information in a format that does not require memorization, allowing the driver to access instructions naturally during the test drive.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Reliability

If a second person monitors measurement signals in real-time, then compliance with test instructions can be checked, but multiple signals cannot be monitored simultaneously at millisecond update rates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedetection of maneuver complianceVSAvoidhuman monitoring capacity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the human monitoring system with an automated electronic evaluation system that processes multiple measurement signals simultaneously at millisecond update rates. This electronic system objectively assesses maneuver compliance without the limitations of human cognitive capacity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The test system automatically evaluates its own performance by continuously monitoring measurement signals and comparing them against test criteria. The system self-assesses maneuver compliance without requiring external human intervention during the test drive.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Object-affected harmful factors

If test criteria are strictly enforced to ensure safety, then dangerous vehicle conditions can be prevented, but the system cannot react to unexpected situations during the functional test

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedangerous vehicle conditionsVSAvoidreaction to unexpected situations
Core Design Contradiction:
Object-affected harmful factorsVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a dynamic test system that adapts criteria enforcement based on real-time conditions. The system maintains strict safety monitoring for predefined criteria while allowing flexibility for unexpected situations, adjusting its response based on the specific context detected during the test drive.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentEP3644148B1Test terminal for tests of an infrastructure of a vehicle
Publication Date: 2021.12.15 AVL LIST GMBH
  • EP3644148B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3644148B1 patent drawingFigure 2

AI summary

A test terminal (1) to support a person (3) during a test run conducted with a vehicle infrastructure (2). The test terminal (1) has at least one processing unit (4), at least one user interface (5), and at least one data interface (6) capable of receiving data from components of the vehicle infrastructure (2). A test sequence plan with a sequence of pre-configured maneuvers to be executed during the test run is stored in a memory of the processing unit (4). The processing unit (4) allows the person (3) to signal at least the maneuver to be executed via the user interface (5) and to monitor its execution using vehicle measurement data received via the data interface (6).