Autonomous Vehicle Map Relabeling Using Low-Resolution Sensor Data

The patent uses low-resolution sensor data from autonomous vehicles as a copy or supplement to the high-resolution authoritative map data. Instead of requiring special purpose mapping vehicles to physically recapture high-resolution data, the system creates updated map representations by processing and integrating lower-resolution sensor observations from regular autonomous vehicle operations, thereby maintaining map relevance without time-consuming specialized mapping missions.

Autonomous vehicles perform map updating functions as part of their normal operational service. The vehicles use their onboard sensors to capture environmental data and contribute to map updates while performing their primary function of autonomous navigation and transport, eliminating the need for separate dedicated mapping operations and reducing overall update time.

Autonomous vehicles serve multiple functions: their primary function of autonomous navigation and transport, and a secondary function of map data collection and updating. By making the vehicle fleet multi-functional, the system eliminates the need for separate special purpose mapping vehicles, reducing operational complexity while maintaining map currency through continuous data collection during normal operations.

The patent merges the map updating function with the autonomous vehicle's normal operational function. Instead of having separate dedicated mapping operations, the system combines map data collection with regular autonomous vehicle missions, thereby reducing operational complexity and eliminating the need for separate specialized vehicles while maintaining reliable map updates.