Autonomous Vehicle Micro-Authorization for Phantom Object Stops
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Autonomous vehicles can be hindered by erroneous sensor system outputs and control algorithms, leading to phantom object detection, which causes unnecessary cessation of propulsion and requires manual intervention, contradicting the purpose of autonomous navigation.
Innovation Solution
A computing system that generates instructions to incrementally advance the autonomous vehicle by deactivating constraints, allowing controlled propulsion through remote assistance, using a remote computing system that receives signals from the autonomous vehicle to identify and temporarily lift restrictions on propulsion, enabling safe advancement with predefined distances.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the autonomous vehicle executes default instructions that maintain mechanical systems in an inactive state until an affirmative sensor signal is received, then safety is improved, but productivity deteriorates when phantom objects cause extended cessation of propulsion
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the authorization process into discrete micro-authorization instances, where each sensor signal evaluation is treated as an independent decision point. This allows the system to maintain safety through systematic evaluation while enabling productive advancement when conditions permit, resolving the contradiction between cautious safety protocols and the need for timely propulsion.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary evaluation of sensor signals against stored representations of known objects before executing propulsion or cessation. By pre-programming recognition of benign objects (steam, reflections), the system can make advance decisions to maintain propulsion without waiting for extended sensor confirmation, thus improving productivity while maintaining safety through pre-planned response protocols.
2Productivity
If manual control is allowed to advance the autonomous vehicle beyond its current location, then productivity is improved, but the primary purpose of autonomous navigation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables autonomous vehicles to self-correct from phantom object detection through automated micro-authorization processes. Rather than requiring manual intervention, the vehicle's computing system automatically re-evaluates sensor data, compares it against known object representations, and authorizes propulsion resumption when benign objects are identified, maintaining full automation while enabling productive advancement.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements continuous feedback loops where sensor signals are constantly evaluated against stored representations of known objects. This feedback mechanism allows the vehicle to automatically detect when cessation was caused by a phantom object and triggers appropriate corrective action, maintaining autonomous operation while ensuring productive advancement when safety conditions are met.
Data Source
AI summary
Micro-authorization of remote assistance for an autonomous vehicle is described herein. A constraint that inhibits propulsion by a mechanical system of the autonomous vehicle is activated by a computing system of the autonomous vehicle, wherein a signal that identifies the activated constraint is transmitted from the autonomous vehicle to a remote computing system. The remote computing system generates instructions to deactivate the activated constraint. A return signal is transmitted from the remote computing system that specifies instructions to deactivate the constraint and a distance to desirably advance the autonomous vehicle. The computing system of the autonomous vehicle deactivates the constraint and the mechanical system is controlled to advance the autonomous vehicle when signal latency is less than a predetermined threshold duration of time.