Autonomous Vehicle Memory Logging for Power-Loss Data Retention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing memory systems in autonomous vehicles do not automatically log data generated by vehicle systems, leading to data unavailability for analysis in case of accidents or adverse events, especially when data is stored in volatile memory and lost due to power loss.
Innovation Solution
A memory device that autonomously collects and stores data from various vehicle systems without requiring control action or prior design configuration of the host controller, allowing for automatic logging and transfer of data to non-volatile storage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If sensor data is stored in volatile memory, then memory speed and performance are improved, but data is lost when power is lost during accidents
Solution Approach 1:
The memory device is pre-configured with firmware that enables it to automatically detect power loss conditions and initiate data transfer to non-volatile storage before the volatile memory is completely lost. This preliminary action ensures critical sensor data is preserved without requiring host system intervention.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary automatic logging function within the memory device that acts as a bridge between the volatile memory and non-volatile storage. This intermediary automatically captures and transfers data when power loss is detected, resolving the contradiction between fast volatile storage and reliable data retention.
2Loss of information
If automatic data logging is implemented, then data availability for analysis is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The memory device is equipped with self-service capabilities through embedded firmware that enables it to automatically monitor power status, detect power loss conditions, and initiate data transfer to non-volatile storage without requiring any control actions or configuration from the host system. This self-service approach improves data availability while minimizing the increase in system complexity.
3Reliability
If data is stored in non-volatile memory, then data retention during power loss is improved, but access speed and performance decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the storage system into two distinct parts: volatile memory for high-speed data access during normal operation, and non-volatile memory for reliable data retention during power loss events. The automatic logging function selectively transfers only critical data to non-volatile storage, maintaining the speed advantages of volatile memory while ensuring data retention reliability.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for an autonomous vehicle includes: controlling at least one system of the vehicle by a host system; automatically collecting, by a memory device, data generated by the at least one system, where the data is collected by the memory device independently of control by the host system; and storing the data in the memory device.